Tender and Spicy Seasoned Eggplant
10-Minute Recipe! Super Easy Tender and Spicy Seasoned Eggplant
Introducing an incredibly simple seasoned eggplant recipe that can be made in just 5 minutes on a busy morning! Its tender texture and spicy kick make it a perfect side dish that will have you reaching for more rice. Stop worrying about side dishes! This recipe uses just one eggplant to save time and maximize flavor – the ultimate morning side dish: seasoned eggplant!
Ingredients- 400g eggplant
- 1 Tbsp chopped scallions
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 0.5 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the eggplants thoroughly and remove the stems. Cut them in half lengthwise for easier cooking.
Step 2
Next, slice the halved eggplants into long strips, then cut these strips into three equal pieces. Avoid slicing them too thinly to maintain a pleasant texture.
Step 3
Now, let’s season the eggplant. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of salt evenly over the sliced eggplant and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Salting draws out moisture, making the eggplant more tender and receptive to seasonings.
Step 4
Cooking the eggplant: Before seasoning, we’ll soften the eggplant. Place the salted eggplant in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a lid or plastic wrap (it doesn’t need to be sealed tightly). Microwave on high power for 6 minutes. Adjust the time slightly depending on the thickness of your eggplant and your microwave’s power.
Step 5
Once microwaved, the eggplant should be soft and tender. This method helps retain the eggplant’s nutrients while achieving a wonderfully soft texture. You can use the released liquid as is, or drain some if there’s too much.
Step 6
Time to mix in the delicious seasonings! To the microwaved eggplant, add 1 Tbsp gochugaru, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp chopped scallions.
Step 7
Gently toss everything together with your hands until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Be careful not to mash the eggplant too much. Using the microwave significantly cuts down cooking time, making this an ideal dish for busy mornings.
Step 8
Finally, transfer the seasoned eggplant to a serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a final touch. Your delicious morning side dish is ready! Enjoy a satisfying breakfast with this tender and spicy seasoned eggplant.
