Vietnamese Eggplant with Spicy Sauce

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its flavorful and diverse dishes, and one popular vegetable that is often featured in Vietnamese cooking is the eggplant. The Vietnamese eggplant, also known as "cà tím," is a small, round, and slightly bitter variety of eggplant that is commonly used in stir-fries, curries, and soups. One particularly delicious and popular way to prepare Vietnamese eggplant is by serving it with a spicy sauce, creating a dish that is both savory and satisfying.

Vietnamese Eggplant with Spicy Sauce
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Prep Time:

25 mins

Cook Time:

11 mins

Total Time:

36 mins

Servings:

2

Yield:

2 servings

Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 white eggplant, sliced
3 tablespoons minced lemongrass
1 tablespoon crushed garlic
1 tablespoon chopped green onion
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon minced red chile pepper
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon white sugar

Directions

Step 1

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add eggplant; cook until golden brown and soft, but not mushy, 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Step 2

Mix remaining 2 tablespoons oil, lemongrass, garlic, green onion, basil, red chile, and ginger together in a bowl. Pour over eggplant in the skillet. Cook until green onion wilts, about 3 minutes. Stir in oyster sauce and sugar. Cook until flavors combine, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

273

Calories

21g

Fat

22g

Carbs

3g

Protein

Complement

The spicy sauce typically includes a combination of chili, garlic, and a variety of seasonings, creating a bold and aromatic flavor that complements the mild bitterness of the eggplant. The eggplant is often sliced and then stir-fried until tender, before being topped with the spicy sauce and garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil. The result is a dish that is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite among those who enjoy the bold and vibrant tastes of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course with steamed rice, Vietnamese eggplant with spicy sauce is a dish that is sure to satisfy the taste buds of anyone who tries it.