Craving a healthy, delicious, and easy dinner? Look no further! This Spicy Thai Eggplant recipe is bursting with vibrant flavors and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a restaurant-quality dish without the restaurant price tag. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, but adds authentic flavor)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Prep the Eggplant: Pat the eggplant cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when sautéed. Salting the eggplant for about 15 minutes before cooking will also draw out excess moisture, resulting in a crispier texture.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the red onion and red bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Add the garlic and chilies and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Eggplant: Add the eggplant cubes to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until they are tender and slightly browned.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), brown sugar, rice vinegar, and ginger. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the Spicy Thai Eggplant hot over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Tips for the Best Spicy Thai Eggplant:
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Eggplant Variety: Japanese eggplants are ideal for this recipe due to their smaller size and tender flesh.
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your preference. Start with one and add more if you like it spicier.
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Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the eggplant in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
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Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and spices will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
Variations:
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Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
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Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or snow peas.
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Peanut Butter Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a creamy and nutty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 8-10g Fat: 10-12g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Spicy Thai Eggplant recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious and flavorful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!