Chinese Garlic Eggplant
This authentic Chinese eggplant dish features tender steamed eggplant coated in a glossy, savory garlic sauce that rivals your favorite takeout restaurant. The secret is steaming the eggplant first to achieve the perfect silky texture without excess oil, then finishing with a flavorful sauce that's both sweet and umami-rich.
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Servings: 4
Calories: 142kcal
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Chinese eggplant about 3 medium
- 6 cloves garlic chopped
- 1/2 tbsp ginger minced
- 2 tbsp neutral oil vegetable or canola
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken stock or vegetable broth
- 1/4 tsp MSG optional
Instructions
- Cut eggplant into 1/2-inch thick angled slices about 3-4 inches long.
- Steam eggplant pieces for 10-12 minutes until tender. Pat dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, cornstarch, stock, and MSG until smooth.
- Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add chopped garlic and minced ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add steamed eggplant to the pan and stir-fry for 2 minutes until lightly browned on edges.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the eggplant and stir continuously until sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice.
Notes
Salt and drain eggplant slices for 30 minutes before cooking to reduce bitterness and excess moisture.
Use a nonstick pan to prevent sticking and guarantee even browning.
Chinese eggplant is longer and thinner than regular eggplant; if unavailable, use Japanese eggplant or small Italian eggplant.
Dark soy sauce adds color and depth; don't substitute with more light soy sauce.
The sauce should coat the eggplant with a glossy finish - if too thick, add a tablespoon of water.
Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Nutrition
Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 770mg | Potassium: 445mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 12g