Gỏi cá (Vietnamese fish salad) and cà tím nướng mỡ hành (grilled eggplant with scallion oil) represent a delightful pairing of textures and flavors, a testament to Vietnamese cuisine's versatility. The refreshing crunch of the fish salad, often featuring a vibrant mix of herbs and spices, contrasts beautifully with the smoky char and rich savoriness of the grilled eggplant. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a complex and satisfying culinary experience, ideal for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish. The combination of the cool, herbaceous salad and the warm, aromatic eggplant offers a delightful dance of tastes and temperatures that will tantalize your taste buds.
This recipe provides a simple yet elegant approach to preparing both components of this delicious meal. We will guide you through each step, from preparing the fish salad’s marinade to achieving the perfect char on the eggplant and creating the fragrant scallion oil. Ready to embark on a culinary journey into the heart of Vietnamese home cooking? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- frying pan
- microwave
- bowl
- knife
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Clean and marinate the goby fish with garlic, chili, seasoning powder, and fish sauce. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the eggplant for grilling (microwave in this case) until cooked.
- Bring water to a boil and prepare the cabbage soup. Add seasoning to taste.
- Heat oil in a pan and add chopped scallions to make scallion oil.
Step 2. Cook the Proteins and Vegetables
- Heat oil in a frying pan, add garlic, and fry the marinated goby fish until golden and crispy.
- Remove the cooked eggplant from the microwave, peel off the skin, and scrape the flesh.
- Mix a little seasoning into the eggplant.
Step 3. Finish the Eggplant and Sauce
- Pour sweet and sour chili sauce over the grilled eggplant and mix well.
Step 4. Serve the Meal
- Serve the fried goby fish, grilled eggplant with scallion oil, and cabbage soup.
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- The amount of garlic used depends on personal preference.
- Microwaving the eggplant is a suitable alternative to grilling with charcoal for urban settings.
- This dish is a frugal meal, rich in vegetables and fruits.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of eggplant?
Yes! Japanese eggplants or even globe eggplants will work well, but adjust cooking time as needed. Smaller eggplants will cook faster.
2. How do I store leftover grilled eggplant?
Store leftover eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's delicious cold or reheated gently.
This simple recipe proves that delicious and authentic Vietnamese cuisine can be easily recreated at home, even in a busy urban setting. The combination of smoky eggplant and fragrant scallion oil is a flavor sensation that will become a new weeknight favorite. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a satisfying meal or a delicious addition to your next gathering!