The Savory Stir-Fried Eggplant with Pork is a fantastic dish that combines the hearty texture of pork with the succulence of fresh eggplants. Enhanced with the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and chili, this recipe offers a delightful blend of tastes that excite the palate. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate the depth of Asian cuisine and are looking for something uniquely satisfying for a weekday dinner.
This dish not only brings a burst of flavors but also incorporates a variety of textures from the tender pork to the slightly crisp eggplants, all brought together with a savory sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or need a quick and nutritious meal, this stir-fry is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare,
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 150g minced pork
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- Cooking oil
- Some green onion
- 3-4 eggplants (medium-sized)
- 1 liter water
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Chili
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or black vinegar
- 50ml water
- Directions:
- Cut the eggplants into strips and soak them in a bowl of water with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar for about 10 minutes to reduce bitterness.
- Mix the minced pork with corn starch and salt in a bowl.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add cooking oil.
- Add the minced pork to the pan and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add more oil if needed and sauté chopped garlic, ginger, and chili until fragrant.
- Add the soaked eggplants to the pan and stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix salt, sugar, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and water to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the eggplants and stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender.
- Add the cooked minced pork back to the pan and mix well.
- Garnish with chopped green onion before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Nutritional and Health Benefits
- High in Nutrients: Eggplants are a great source of vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as manganese, fiber, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining good health.
- Protein-Rich: Minced pork provides high-quality protein necessary for muscle repair and growth.
- Antioxidant Properties: Garlic and ginger are not just for flavor; they also offer significant antioxidant benefits, helping to reduce inflammation and boost immune health.
Culinary Tips and Variations
- Meat Variations: While pork is used here, you can easily substitute it with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version without losing the integrity of the dish.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust the chili, garlic, and ginger according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy a bit of extra heat, increase the quantity of chili.
- Serving Suggestions: This stir-fry works beautifully over a bed of steamed rice or noodles to make a more filling meal.
Cooking Insights
- Preparation of Eggplant: Soaking the eggplant strips in vinegar-water not only mitigates bitterness but also helps maintain a vibrant color after cooking.
- Balanced Flavors: The key to this dish is the balance of flavors—the mild sweetness of the black or balsamic vinegar contrasts with the sharpness of the soy sauce and the heat from the chili.
Why This Dish Stands Out
This stir-fry is a testament to the philosophy that simple ingredients can produce extraordinary results. The combination of pork and eggplant provides a satisfying umami flavor that is enhanced by the foundational Asian condiments of soy sauce and vinegar. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet it’s sophisticated enough to serve at a gathering with friends or family.
Savory Stir-Fried Eggplant with Pork is not just a meal—it’s a celebration of fresh, robust flavors brought together in one pan. Try this recipe today and bring a touch of gourmet to your everyday dining experience.
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