How to Make Vietnamese Vegan Eggplant Stir-Fry
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, and one delightful dish you can easily recreate at home is Vegan Eggplant Stir-Fry. This simple yet delicious recipe showcases the natural taste of eggplant combined with a variety of herbs and spices. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized eggplants, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon vegan oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil or cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the eggplant by placing it in a colander and sprinkling with salt. Allow it to sit for about 20 minutes; this process helps draw out moisture and bitterness from the eggplant. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly translucent.
Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the prepared eggplant. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the eggplant is tender and slightly browned.
Step 4: Add the sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Pour in the soy sauce, vegan oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, cooking for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or cilantro. Serve your delicious vegan eggplant stir-fry over a bed of cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Vegan Eggplant Stir-Fry
- Choose smaller, firmer eggplants for a better texture.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference; feel free to add chili flakes for some heat.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
This Vegan Eggplant Stir-Fry is not only a quick and satisfying meal but also a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!