This irresistible sticky garlic eggplant recipe features tender eggplant glazed in a savory, sweet, and garlicky sauce. Perfect as a side or main dish, it’s bursting with umami and Asian-inspired flavors.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:2–3 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stir-Fry
Cuisine:Asian
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
2 medium eggplants, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Cut the eggplant into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the eggplant and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is browned and tender. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
Return the cooked eggplant to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1–2 minutes.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onion and sesame seeds.
Serve hot with steamed rice or as desired.
Notes
You can use Japanese or Chinese eggplants for a more tender texture.
Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to your taste.
Add chili flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick.
For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.