Description
Sticky Garlic Eggplant is the ultimate quick dinner recipe when you want something bold, saucy, and full of flavor. This healthy snack or easy dinner idea features tender slices of pan-seared eggplant glazed in a sweet, garlicky soy sauce that’s packed with umami. Perfect for meatless meals, weeknight dinners, or when you’re craving satisfying Asian food ideas at home. Whether you’re after vegetarian dinner ideas or quick, plant-based recipes, this easy recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
2 medium Asian or Chinese eggplants
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable or avocado)
2 stalks green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
1. Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick diagonal pieces. If using globe eggplants, salt and set aside for 10–15 minutes, then pat dry.
2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, and chili flakes. Stir well and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sear eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and tender, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. Lower the heat and add a bit more oil if needed. Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
5. Return the eggplant to the pan and pour in the sauce. Toss gently to coat. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Turn off heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
For extra depth, use dark soy sauce — it adds color and rich flavor.
Don’t skip the cornstarch; it makes the sauce silky and thick.
Searing the eggplant in batches helps keep it tender, not soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg