Description
Crispy Chinese Eggplant Delight is a delicious and crunchy dish made with eggplants, perfect for a snack or side.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup water (or as needed)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds or strips. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Gradually add water until a smooth batter forms.
- In a deep skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of batter into it; it should sizzle immediately.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully place them in the hot oil.
- Fry the eggplants in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce and cook for an additional minute.
- Drizzle the sauce over the crispy eggplants or toss them in the sauce for even coating. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by modifying or omitting cayenne pepper.
- Serve hot for the best texture.
- Pair with rice or noodles as a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
