Eggplants are a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in various ways and one of the most delightful methods is to stir-fry them Korean style. This recipe for Korean Stir Fried Eggplant is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors that will surely tantalize your taste buds. The dish is easy to make and makes for a satisfying side dish or even a light meal when served with steamed rice. Let’s get started on this flavorful and comforting recipe!
**Korean Stir Fried Eggplant**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into thin strips
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, minced
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1 red chili or chili flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by preparing the eggplants. Cut off the ends and slice them into thin strips. Place the eggplant strips in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the sauce.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil to create the sauce for the stir-fry. Set it aside for later use.
3. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring often to prevent burning, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Drain the eggplant strips and pat them dry with a paper towel. Add them to the pan and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly tender.
5. Pour the prepared sauce over the eggplants and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for an additional 3-4 minutes. The eggplants should be well coated with the sauce and caramelized slightly.
6. Add the chopped green onions and chili to the pan, giving it a final toss to distribute the flavors evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the green onions are slightly wilted.
7. Taste the stir-fry and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce or chili flakes according to your preference.
8. Once the eggplants are cooked to your desired tenderness and the flavors have melded together, remove the pan from the heat.
Serve the Korean Stir Fried Eggplant hot as a side dish or on its own with a steaming bowl of rice for a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of the savory soy sauce, the hint of sweetness from the sugar, and the kick of spice from the chili creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will surely impress your taste buds. Enjoy this easy-to-make yet flavorful dish that brings a taste of Korea to your table!
