Sticky Garlic Eggplant
Experience the magic of sticky garlic eggplant—a delightful dish that transforms tender eggplant into a sweet and savory masterpiece. Coated in a rich garlic sauce, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Its vibrant flavors and glossy finish make it a stunning addition to any table, ensuring even the most skeptical eaters will be asking for seconds.
- Author: Jennifer
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Vegetarian
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- 2 medium eggplants (about 500g), chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1. Salt the Eggplant: Place chopped eggplant in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- 2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth.
- 3. Cook the Eggplant: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant in batches to prevent overcrowding. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and tender.
- 4. Add the Sauce: Pour in the prepared sauce over cooked eggplant and stir gently until every piece is coated and sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
- 5. Finish with Green Onions: Just before serving, toss in sliced green onions for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For gluten-free options, substitute soy sauce with tamari. For extra heat, add chili flakes to the sauce or fresh basil for an aromatic twist. Remember to allow enough time for caramelization to enhance flavors!