Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

Name: Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium Chinese eggplants, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 green onions, sliced

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich and savory taste of this Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce recipe, a delightful addition to your dinner table. Tender eggplant is stir-fried to perfection and coated in a luscious garlic sauce that balances sweetness and umami. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a simple yet flavorful vegan option that captures the essence of Asian cuisine. Perfect for serve with rice or as a side to complement your favorite main dishes!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-02T10:53:22.768Z

This Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Asian cuisine while keeping it simple and healthy. The eggplant absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite a burst of flavor.

A Perfect Vegan Dish

This Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce is an exemplary vegan dish that highlights the versatility of eggplant. The texture of the eggplant, when stir-fried, becomes incredibly tender while maintaining its structure, allowing it to soak up all the delicious flavors of the accompanying sauce. Being plant-based, this recipe is not only good for your health but also mindful of the environment, making it a great option for anyone, regardless of dietary preference.

Moreover, incorporating more vegetables into your meals is beneficial for both your body and your taste buds. This dish offers a medley of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals found in eggplant, along with the health benefits of garlic. It's an excellent way to satisfy your cravings with a dish that nourishes from within.

Cooking Tips and Variations

When preparing this dish, using fresh, high-quality ingredients enhances the final result significantly. Look for Chinese eggplants, which are thinner and have fewer seeds than regular ones, making them perfect for absorbing flavors. If you can't find them, you can substitute with regular eggplants, cutting them into smaller pieces to maintain a similar cooking time and texture.

Feel free to adjust the sauce to suit your taste preferences. If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding extra red pepper flakes or even a splash of chili oil. On the other hand, you can reduce the sugar for a less sweet version or swap it out for a natural sweetener like maple syrup for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making it a complete meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. The fluffy rice absorbs the flavorful garlic sauce, creating a balanced dining experience. You can also serve it alongside other stir-fried vegetables or tofu for a heartier meal that is sure to please vegans and non-vegans alike.

For those planning a family gathering or dinner party, consider serving this dish as part of a larger spread of Asian-inspired dishes. It complements the flavors of fried rice, dumplings, or even a simple miso soup beautifully. The vibrant colors and delicious aromas will surely capture everyone's attention and make your meal memorable.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

2 medium Chinese eggplants, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, sliced

These ingredients will help you create a vibrant and flavorful dish in no time!

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

In a large bowl, toss the eggplant pieces with a pinch of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Make the Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.

Stir-Fry the Eggplant

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the eggplant and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly browned.

Combine with Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute before pouring the sauce over the eggplant. Stir well to combine.

Finish and Serve

Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Serve this delightful dish hot with steamed rice or as a side to your favorite main dishes.

Nutritional Benefits

Chinese eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while staying full. Rich in antioxidants, they contribute to overall health by combating free radicals in the body. Incorporating them regularly can help support heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Garlic, a key ingredient in this recipe, is widely celebrated not just for its flavor but also for its numerous health benefits. It possesses antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, helping to boost the immune system. Rich in vitamins B and C, garlic also aids in digestion and promotes overall wellness.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple—just warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to reclaim some moisture if necessary. This dish retains its flavor and texture remarkably well, making it perfect for meal prep.

While reheating in a microwave is an option, be cautious as it can sometimes lead to a soggy texture. If you prefer a crispy finish, the skillet method will ensure that the eggplant maintains its delightful firmness, allowing you to enjoy this dish just as much the second time around.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular eggplant instead of Chinese eggplant?

Yes, but Chinese eggplant tends to be sweeter and has fewer seeds.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce if you're avoiding gluten.