Eggplant, that versatile purple jewel of the vegetable world, takes center stage in this recipe for Stuffed Eggplant with Fish Sauce. This isn't your grandmother's eggplant parmesan; we're venturing into a realm of bold, savory flavors, where the sweetness of the eggplant perfectly complements the umami punch of fish sauce. Imagine tender eggplant halves, generously filled with a fragrant mixture of ground pork, mushrooms, and a secret blend of spices, all bathed in a rich, glistening sauce that will leave you wanting more. This dish is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated to culinary excellence.
The combination of textures and tastes is simply irresistible – the soft, yielding eggplant contrasts beautifully with the savory filling, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below to create this unforgettable Stuffed Eggplant with Fish Sauce.
Tools Needed
- bowl
- spoon
- frying pan
- chopsticks
- knife
- plate
- oil-absorbent paper
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling and Eggplant
- Marinate minced meat with shallots, garlic, chicken seasoning powder, sugar, fish sauce, pepper, and MSG (optional). Refrigerate for 40 minutes or add cornstarch for immediate use.
- Prepare a saltwater and lemon solution. Cut eggplant in half, then slice into 5-6mm thick pieces. Soak in the solution for 2 minutes to prevent browning.
Step 2. Stuff, Coat, and Fry the Eggplant
- Stuff the marinated meat into the eggplant slices. Lightly coat the stuffed eggplant with crispy fried flour.
- Deep fry the stuffed eggplant in hot oil over medium heat for about 2.5 minutes per side, ensuring the meat is cooked through.
Step 3. Prepare the Sauce
- Saute garlic and chili until fragrant. Add fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, MSG (optional), chili sauce, and water. Simmer until thickened. Add green onions.
Step 4. Assemble and Garnish
- Pour the sauce over the fried eggplant. Garnish with green vegetables and chili.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Using small eggplants with long tips will result in a more visually appealing dish.
- Don't overstuff the eggplant with meat; it should be evenly distributed and not protrude excessively.
- Soaking the eggplant in saltwater prevents it from darkening.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Is eggplant healthy?
Yes! Eggplant is low in calories, high in fiber, and a good source of antioxidants.
2. How do I prevent eggplant from becoming bitter?
Salt the sliced eggplant and let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry before cooking.
3. What's the best way to cook eggplant?
It depends on the recipe! Roasting brings out its sweetness, while grilling gives it a smoky flavor. Pan-frying works well for achieving crispy textures.
From crispy fries to savory stuffed delights, we've explored the incredible versatility of eggplant. These eight recipes offer a delicious starting point for your eggplant culinary adventures, inspiring you to experiment with this humble yet flavorful vegetable. So grab an eggplant and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!