Are you looking for a flavorful and versatile ingredient to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble Chinese eggplant! With its slightly sweet flavor, tender flesh, and impressive versatility, it’s no wonder that this popular ingredient has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of home cooks and professional chefs alike.
From savory stir-fries to sweet and sour sauces, there are countless ways to prepare Chinese eggplant. And in this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase its incredible range. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity and leave you wanting more. So let’s get started on this delicious journey, shall we?
Garlic Soy Braised Chinese Eggplant
Elevate your eggplant game with this aromatic and flavorful braising recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and spices will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Chinese eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add eggplant slices in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side or until tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, white pepper, and salt.
5. In a large baking dish, create a single layer with the cooked eggplant slices. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the eggplant, making sure each slice is coated.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sichuan Eggplant with Minced Pork
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this simple and spicy recipe for eggplant stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup minced pork
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced pork and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, ginger paste, chili bean paste, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the eggplant pieces and stir-fry until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chinese Eggplant Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese dish that combines the tender sweetness of eggplant with a tangy and savory sweet and sour sauce, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until tender and lightly browned.
3. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and sugar.
5. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
6. Return the eggplant to the pan and toss with the sweet and sour sauce.
7. Season with salt to taste, then garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu with Chinese Eggplant
A classic Sichuan dish that combines the savory flavors of tofu and eggplant with the spicy kick of mapo paste.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium Chinese eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 2 teaspoons mapo paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the tofu and mapo paste. Stir-fry until the tofu is coated with the sauce and slightly browned.
5. Return the eggplant to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Chinese Eggplant with Chili Oil
This classic Sichuan dish is a staple in many Chinese households. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and spicy eggplant dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch slices and place them in a steamer basket.
2. Steam the eggplant for 10-12 minutes or until it becomes tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the chili oil, garlic, and soy sauce.
4. Remove the eggplant from the steamer and brush the chili oil mixture evenly over each slice.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Use a high-quality chili oil for an authentic flavor.
– Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less chili oil.
– You can also add some sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top for added texture and visual appeal.
Eggplant and Green Bean Dry Pot
A flavorful and nutritious dry pot dish that combines tender eggplant and crunchy green beans with aromatic spices and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender.
3. Add the green beans, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly caramelized.
4. Pour in the soy sauce; stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Eggplant with Black Bean Sauce
This flavorful and nutritious stir-fry combines the tender texture of eggplant with the savory richness of black bean sauce, making for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add eggplant; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour sauce over the eggplant mixture.
5. Stir in black beans and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yu Xiang Eggplant (Fish-Fragrant Eggplant)
This classic Sichuan dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, characterized by the bold flavors and aromas of fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and chili peppers. Yu Xiang Eggplant is a simple yet flavorful recipe that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (Yu Xiang)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch cubes and season with salt.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and eggplant; stir-fry until the eggplant is tender (about 5 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch.
4. Pour the sauce mixture into the wok or skillet and stir to combine with the eggplant. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Honey Glazed Chinese Eggplant
This sweet and savory recipe is a perfect twist on traditional Chinese eggplant dishes. With its sticky honey glaze, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Fry eggplant slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Add the glaze to the skillet or wok and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the fried eggplant slices to the glaze and toss to coat.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the glaze is sticky and the eggplant is coated.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant and Tofu Clay Pot
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the richness of eggplant with the creaminess of tofu, all in a clay pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into thick rounds
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large clay pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the eggplant slices in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side or until tender.
5. Remove the eggplant from the pot and set aside.
6. Add the tofu to the pot, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 8 minutes.
7. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
8. Return the eggplant slices to the pot, stirring to combine with the tofu mixture.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: About 30-35 minutes total
Five-Spice Roasted Chinese Eggplant
Discover the aromatic flavors of China with this simple recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of eggplant, enhanced by a blend of five spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized Chinese eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, soy sauce, and five-spice powder.
3. Add the sliced eggplant rounds to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated eggplant slices in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven, drizzle with sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant and Ground Chicken Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the richness of eggplant with the savory taste of ground chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sliced eggplant and cook until tender, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Ginger Sauce
A classic Sichuan dish, this recipe combines the sweetness of eggplant with the savory flavors of garlic and ginger. This quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds.
5. Stir in soy sauce and cornstarch mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the cooked eggplant back into the pan and stir to combine with the garlic ginger sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Shrimp in XO Sauce
A classic Cantonese dish that combines the richness of eggplant with the succulence of shrimp, all wrapped up in a savory XO sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons XO sauce (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the eggplant slices to the pan; stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in the XO sauce; cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Note: XO sauce is a savory condiment made from dried fish, scallops, and other ingredients. You can find it in most Asian grocery stores or online. If unavailable, substitute with a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce.
Braised Eggplant with Mushrooms and Bamboo Shoots
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of eggplant, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots in a savory sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups bamboo shoots, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add eggplant slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add mushrooms and bamboo shoots to the pan; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 1 minute.
5. Return eggplant slices to the pan; stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the meaty texture of eggplant, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful addition to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
3. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside. Repeat with the bell peppers, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked vegetables back into the pan, along with the onion and garlic. Stir-fry everything together, then pour in the sauce mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Eggplant with Fermented Tofu
This recipe combines the tender flesh of eggplant with the savory flavor of fermented tofu, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and umami. Perfect as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1/4 cup fermented tofu (dòuchī), crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant slices and cook until they start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and fermented tofu; stir-fry for another minute.
4. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Salt and Pepper Eggplant
This recipe yields a deliciously crispy eggplant dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and textured treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dip each eggplant slice into the oil mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Roll the coated eggplant slices in breadcrumbs to coat.
6. Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of Chinese eggplant with these 18 flavorful recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic dishes like Garlic Soy Braised Chinese Eggplant and Mapo Tofu with Chinese Eggplant to sweet and sour stir-fries and spicy Sichuan specialties, there’s something for everyone. Try Steamed Chinese Eggplant with Chili Oil for a simple yet aromatic side dish or Sticky Honey Glazed Chinese Eggplant for a sweet treat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will guide you in exploring the many faces of Chinese eggplant cuisine.
