eggshells

How to Make Eggplant with Minced Pork (Qie Xiang)

Eggplant with Minced Pork, or *Qie Xiang*, is a beloved Chinese dish known for its tender eggplant, savory flavor, and rich sauce. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients: 2 large eggplants, 200g ground pork, 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tbsp ginger (minced), 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tbsp cooking wine, 2 tbsp vegetable oil, and a pinch of white pepper.

Steps:

1. Prep the Eggplant: Peel the eggplants and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Soak in salted water for 10 minutes to remove bitterness, then pat dry.

2. Cook the Pork: Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Add ground pork, stir-fry until browned, then add garlic and ginger until fragrant.

3. Combine and Simmer: Add eggplant cubes to the wok, pouring in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, cooking wine, and a splash of water. Stir well, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the eggplant is soft.

4. Finish and Serve: Uncover, increase heat to reduce the sauce slightly, and season with white pepper. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with rice.

This dish balances umami and sweetness, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Enjoy your homemade *Qie Xiang*!