This simple yet flavorful stir-fry combines the soft, absorbent texture of eggplant with the savory richness of minced meat, creating a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Eggplant, often overlooked, transforms into a delightful centerpiece when properly prepared, soaking up the delicious sauce and offering a delightful contrast in texture to the tender minced meat. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal when you're craving something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce create a symphony of taste that will leave you wanting more.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this stir-fried eggplant with minced meat is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the eggplant to achieving the perfect balance of flavors, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Minced meat (pork): 300 grams
- Garlic: 7 cloves
- Green onions: 30 grams
- Eggplants: 2
- Salt
- Sugar: 1 spoon
- Sweet powder: 1 teaspoon
- Seasoning powder: 1 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: 1/3 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Chili sauce: 1/2 spoon
- Oyster sauce: 1/2 spoon
- Water: 3 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Eggplant and Sauce
- Wash and chop green onions.
- Prepare salt water (water + 1 spoonful of salt) to prevent eggplant from turning black.
- Cut eggplants into 4-5 cm pieces and immediately soak them in salt water.
- Soak eggplants for 5 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Mix sugar, sweet powder, seasoning powder, ground pepper, fish sauce, chili sauce, oyster sauce, and water.
- Wash the soaked eggplants thoroughly three times with water to remove the black substance.
Step 2. Cook Minced Meat
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry half the garlic until golden brown.
- Add minced meat and stir-fry until slightly rare. Add 3 tablespoons of prepared sauce and stir well to coat the meat evenly.
- Remove the cooked meat and set aside.
Step 3. Stir-fry Eggplant and Combine
- Add remaining garlic to the pan and fry until fragrant.
- Add the drained eggplants and stir-fry for about 1 minute until lightly colored. Add the remaining sauce and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked minced meat and stir-fry to combine. Add green onions and stir-fry briefly.
Step 4. Serve
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Choose shiny, undamaged eggplants for best results.
- Soaking eggplants in salt water prevents them from turning black.
- Don't overcook the eggplant; it should be slightly soft.
- Let the cooked dish cool slightly before serving to prevent the eggplant from turning black.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat instead of minced meat?
Yes! Ground chicken, pork, or turkey work well as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the meat's leanness.
2. How can I prevent the eggplant from absorbing too much oil?
Salt the sliced eggplant and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture before stir-frying. This helps prevent oil absorption.
3. What can I do if my eggplant is too soft or mushy?
Ensure you salt and drain the eggplant properly. Also, don't overcrowd the pan when stir-frying; cook in batches if necessary to maintain a high heat and prevent steaming.
This simple stir-fry recipe proves that delicious meals don't have to be complicated. Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and flavors, and don't hesitate to experiment with different spices and vegetables to customize this recipe to your taste. Happy cooking!