Maotai-flavored tomato strips

How to Make Flavorful Braised Eggplant Strips

Braised eggplant strips in soy sauce sauce (酱香茄条) are a popular Chinese dish loved for its tender texture and rich, savory flavor. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients: 2 long eggplants, 2 tbsp cooking oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp ginger, 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp cornstarch, 1 cup water, and chopped green onions for garnish.

Steps:

1. Prepare the eggplant: Wash the eggplants, peel them (optional), and cut into 5cm-long strips. Soak in salted water for 10 minutes to remove bitterness, then drain and pat dry.

2. Stir-fry: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add eggplant strips and stir-fry until golden and soft, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the sauce: In the same wok, sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add light and dark soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir in cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

4. Combine: Return the eggplant strips to the wok, toss gently to coat evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes until heated through.

5. Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips: For extra umami, add a dash of oyster sauce or fermented bean paste. Adjust soy sauce quantity based on saltiness preference. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors!