How to Make Vietnamese Grilled Eggplant Sauce
Vietnamese grilled eggplant sauce, known as "dưa cà", is a traditional condiment that adds a burst of flavor to various dishes. This smoky, savory sauce pairs beautifully with rice, grilled meats, and can even elevate simple vegetable dishes. Follow these steps to create your own delicious Vietnamese grilled eggplant sauce at home.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Eggplants
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, wash the eggplants and pat them dry. Prick the skin of each eggplant with a fork a few times to avoid them bursting while cooking. Once the grill is hot, place the eggplants directly on the grill. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and the flesh is tender and smoky.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base
Once the eggplants are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool. When they are cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skin. Place the soft eggplant flesh in a bowl and mash it with a fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
To the mashed eggplant, add fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, chopped chili, and lime juice. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more fish sauce or lime juice if desired.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the grilled eggplant sauce to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a hint of color and flavor. This sauce can be served warm or at room temperature and is perfect as a dip, or drizzled over grilled meats or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Best Results
- Feel free to experiment with ingredients; adding a touch of sesame oil can enhance the richness of the sauce.
- For a vegan version, substitute fish sauce with a plant-based alternative.
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Now that you know how to make Vietnamese grilled eggplant sauce, you can bring a taste of Vietnam to your dining table. Enjoy this flavorful condiment and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!