Spice it up: elevate your cooking with our mouthwatering spicy chinese eggplant recipe

Prepare your palate for an electrifying culinary adventure with this fiery rendition of the classic Chinese eggplant recipe. Our Sichuan Firecracker Eggplant delivers an unparalleled symphony of flavors, where tender eggplant meets a tantalizing blend of aromatic spices and a tongue-tingling kick of heat.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup Doubanjiang (Chinese fermented bean paste)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (ground)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: In a large bowl, combine the eggplant cubes, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Fry the Eggplant: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant cubes and fry until golden brown and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

3. Create the Sauce: In a separate skillet or wok, heat the Doubanjiang, ginger, and garlic over medium heat. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Add the Vegetables: Add the green onions, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Season and Simmer: Stir in the soy sauce, rice wine, chicken broth, sugar, sesame oil, and Sichuan peppercorns. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

6. Return the Eggplant: Add the fried eggplant cubes back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Spice Level

This recipe packs a punch of heat, thanks to the Sichuan peppercorns and Doubanjiang. If you prefer a milder dish, adjust the amount of Sichuan peppercorns and Doubanjiang to your taste.

Variations

• Add Tofu: For a protein boost, add 1/2 block of extra-firm tofu, cut into cubes, and fry it along with the eggplant.
• Use Other Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as snap peas, carrots, or baby corn.
• Make it Vegan: Omit the chicken broth and replace it with vegetable broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Rice: Serve the eggplant over a bed of steamed rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• With Noodles: Pair the eggplant with your favorite noodles, such as ramen or udon, for a flavorful and slurpable dish.
• As a Side Dish: This spicy eggplant makes an excellent side dish to grilled meats, fish, or tofu.

Storage

Leftover eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium heat before serving.

Tips

• Use Fresh Eggplant: For the best results, use fresh eggplant that is firm and has a glossy skin.
• Don’t Overcook: Eggplant tends to absorb oil quickly, so be careful not to overcook it.
• Adjust the Heat: If you find the dish too spicy, add a little bit of honey or sugar to balance the flavors.

“Conclusion: The Ultimate Spicy Delicacy”

Indulge in the fiery embrace of our Sichuan Firecracker Eggplant recipe. This tantalizing dish, brimming with bold flavors and a tongue-tingling kick, will leave an unforgettable mark on your culinary journey. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or as a side dish, this spicy masterpiece is guaranteed to ignite your taste buds and tantalize your senses.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the eggplant can be fried and the sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply reheat the eggplant and sauce before serving.

• What is Doubanjiang?

Doubanjiang is a fermented Chinese bean paste that adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor to dishes. It can be found in most Asian grocery stores.

• Can I use a different type of eggplant?

Yes, you can use other types of eggplant, such as Japanese or Thai eggplant. However, the cooking time may vary slightly.

• How do I reduce the spiciness?

To reduce the spiciness, use less Sichuan peppercorns and Doubanjiang. You can also add a bit of sugar or honey to balance the flavors.

• Can I freeze the eggplant?

Yes, you can freeze the fried eggplant for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.