This Baked Eggplant with Sweet and Spicy Sauce is a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for any meal. The eggplants are baked until tender and then tossed with a flavorful sauce, purple onion, cherry tomatoes, and topped with creamy feta cheese and fresh parsley. It’s a great way to enjoy the rich flavors of eggplant in a light and nutritious meal.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants 🍆
- Salt (to taste)
- Water
- Cornstarch (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil (for greasing and baking)
- 1 purple onion 🧅, chopped
- Cherry tomatoes 🍅, cut in half
- 100g feta cheese 🧀, crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sweet and sour chili pepper sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Peel the eggplants and cut them into large cubes.
- Place the eggplant cubes in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and add water to cover. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to remove bitterness.
- Drain the eggplants and remove excess moisture with paper towels.
- Bake the Eggplants:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Dredge each piece of eggplant in cornstarch.
- Grease a baking sheet lined with parchment paper with vegetable oil.
- Lay out the eggplant cubes on the baking sheet and drizzle with vegetable oil.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the eggplants are tender and golden brown.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the eggplants are baking, chop the purple onion and cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
- Place the chopped onion and tomatoes on a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sweet and sour chili pepper sauce.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Once the eggplants are baked, transfer them to a serving plate.
- Add the chopped purple onion and cherry tomatoes to the plate.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the eggplants and vegetables.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley.
- Garnish with sesame seeds.
- Serve:
- Serve the dish warm as a main course or a side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the eggplants are well-drained and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Adjust the amount of chili sauce based on your spice preference.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants: Low in calories and high in fiber and antioxidants.
- Feta Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins and minerals.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces used are gluten-free.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a flavorful and healthy dish that’s easy to prepare.
- The combination of baked eggplant, spicy sauce, and creamy feta is irresistible.
- Versatile and can be served as a main dish or side.
Conclusion:
This Baked Eggplant with Sweet and Spicy Sauce and Feta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a great way to enjoy eggplants in a new and exciting way. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones!