Chinese Brinjal Recipe: Traditional Dish Gets Even More Flavourful

Brinjal, also known as eggplant or aubergine, is a versatile vegetable that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. There are many different ways to prepare brinjal, including stir-frying, braising, and roasting. In this article, we'll explore some of the best brinjal recipes from China and provide you with tips on how to make them at home.

One of the most popular Chinese eggplant dishes is Yu Xiang Qiezi, which is also known as Fish Fragrant Eggplant. This Sichuan cuisine classic is made with garlic, ginger, scallions, soy sauce, and vinegar, and it has a sweet and sour flavour that pairs well with rice or noodles. Another delicious brinjal recipe is Chinese Brinjal with Garlic Soy Sauce, which is made with oyster sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. This dish is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a main course.

If you're looking to add some protein to your brinjal recipe, you might want to consider adding seafood. Shrimp, scallops, and squid are all great options that pair well with brinjal. You can stir-fry them together with the brinjal or add them to a braised dish for extra flavour and nutrition. Whatever recipe you choose, be sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Key Takeaways

• Brinjal is a versatile vegetable that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine.
• Some popular brinjal recipes include Yu Xiang Qiezi and Chinese Brinjal with Garlic Soy Sauce.
• Adding seafood to your brinjal recipe can be a great way to increase its nutritional value and flavour.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When it comes to making a delicious Chinese brinjal recipe, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Here are some tips on how to choose the best ingredients for your dish.

Selecting the Best Brinjals

When selecting brinjals, it is important to choose ones that are firm to the touch and have smooth, unblemished skin. Chinese or Japanese eggplants are ideal for this recipe because of their tender texture and mild flavour. They are also narrower and longer in shape, making them easier to cut into uniform pieces.

Essential Chinese Seasonings

The right seasoning is essential to give your Chinese brinjal dish that authentic taste. Here are some of the essential Chinese seasonings that you will need:

• Soy Sauce: This is a must-have ingredient for any Chinese dish. It adds savoury umami flavour and a rich brown colour to the dish. Use light soy sauce for a milder flavour and dark soy sauce for a more intense, caramelised flavour.

• Sesame Oil: This fragrant oil is used to add depth of flavour and aroma to the dish. Use it sparingly as a finishing oil, as it can overpower the other flavours.

• Vinegar: Vinegar adds a tangy, acidic flavour to the dish. Use rice vinegar or black vinegar for an authentic Chinese taste.

• Doubanjiang: This is a spicy fermented bean paste that adds a complex, savoury flavour to the dish. Use it in moderation, as it can be quite spicy.

• Garlic, Ginger and Spring Onion: These aromatic ingredients are used to add depth of flavour and aroma to the dish. Use them finely chopped or minced to release their full flavour.

If you want to add seafood to your Chinese brinjal dish, you can use prawns or scallops. Simply sauté them with the garlic and ginger before adding the brinjals to the pan. The seafood will add a sweet, briny flavour that complements the savoury brinjals.

Preparation Techniques

Cutting and Slicing

Before you start cooking, you need to prepare the brinjal. Start by cleaning the brinjal and slicing it into wedges or oblique/roll cuts as per your preference. If you are using long brinjal, cut it into wedges. For smaller brinjal, you can do oblique/roll cutting. If you are not sure how to do it, you can refer to the search results for more detailed instructions.

Marinating the Brinjal

Marinating the brinjal is an important step that adds flavour to the dish. After slicing the brinjal, sprinkle salt on all sides of the brinjal and allow it to rest for 20-25 minutes. This will help to remove any excess moisture from the brinjal. You can also marinate the brinjal with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar for a few minutes. This will give the brinjal a tangy and sweet flavour.

Creating the Sauce

The sauce is what gives the dish its final flavour. You can create a sauce using garlic sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and water. Mix the ingredients together in a bowl and set it aside. You can also add seafood like prawns or fish to the sauce for an added flavour. If you do plan on using seafood, make sure to use fresh prawns or fish and cook it separately before adding it to the sauce.

To cook the brinjal, heat up some cooking oil in a wok and fry the brinjal until it becomes soft and withered. You can also deep-fry the brinjal for a crispier texture. Once the brinjal is cooked, add the sauce to the wok and stir-fry it for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Garnish the dish with some chopped spring onions and toasted sesame seeds.

By following these preparation techniques, you can create a delicious Chinese brinjal dish that is full of flavour and texture.

Cooking Methods

Stir-Frying in a Wok

Stir-frying is a popular cooking method for brinjal dishes in Chinese cuisine. It involves quickly cooking small pieces of brinjal in a hot wok with oil and other seasonings. The high heat and constant stirring help to create a crispy texture on the outside of the brinjal while keeping the inside tender.

When stir-frying brinjal, it is important to cut it into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Long brinjal is a great option for stir-frying as it holds its shape well and has a mild flavour that pairs well with other ingredients.

To stir-fry brinjal, heat a wok over high heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add the brinjal and stir-fry for a few minutes until it is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. You can add other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and seafood like shrimp or scallops to enhance the flavour of the dish. Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Steaming for Texture

Steaming is another great cooking method for brinjal dishes, especially if you want to achieve a soft and silky texture. Steaming brinjal is a healthier option as it requires little to no oil and helps to retain the nutrients in the vegetable.

To steam brinjal, cut it into thin slices and place them in a steamer basket. Steam for about 10-15 minutes until the brinjal is soft and tender. You can season the brinjal with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for added flavour.

As a suggestion, you can also add seafood like fish or prawns to the steamed brinjal for a more complex flavour profile. The seafood can be marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before being added to the steamer basket with the brinjal. Serve with steamed rice for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Serving and Pairing

Accompaniments

When it comes to serving Chinese brinjal, rice is the perfect accompaniment. Plain steamed rice will work well, but you can also try serving it with fried rice or noodles. If you're looking to add a bit of heat to your meal, you can pair it with red chilli.

If you're a seafood lover, you can also add seafood to your Chinese brinjal dish. Shrimp, scallops or even squid would be a great addition. Just make sure to cook the seafood separately and add it to the dish at the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Garnishing for Flavour

Garnishing your Chinese brinjal dish is a great way to add extra flavour and texture. Try sprinkling some black pepper or sesame seeds over the top for a delicious crunch. You can also add some chopped spring onions for a fresh burst of flavour.

When it comes to serving Chinese brinjal, don't be afraid to get creative. This versatile vegetable pairs well with a variety of different ingredients, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination.

Nutritional Information

If you are looking for a healthy and delicious vegetable to add to your diet, then Chinese brinjal is an excellent choice. It is low in calories, high in fiber, and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.

One cup of cooked Chinese brinjal contains approximately 35 calories, making it an excellent choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. It is also high in fiber, with one cup containing approximately 2.5 grams of fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.

In addition to being low in calories and high in fiber, Chinese brinjal is also an excellent source of potassium, which can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. One cup of cooked Chinese brinjal contains approximately 230 milligrams of potassium, which is about 5% of your recommended daily intake.

Chinese brinjal is also a good source of carbohydrates, with one cup containing approximately 9 grams of carbohydrates. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are looking for a healthy source of energy to fuel their day.

If you are vegan or vegetarian, then Chinese brinjal is an excellent choice for you. It is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes, and it is also a good source of protein.

For those who are looking to add some seafood to their Chinese brinjal recipe, you can consider adding prawns or squid. These seafood options would complement the dish well, and their flavours would blend nicely with the garlic and soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the simplest method to cook Chinese-style aubergine?

The simplest method to cook Chinese-style aubergine is by stir-frying it with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Cut the aubergine into thin slices and fry them in a hot wok with some oil until they're tender. Then, add minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for a few seconds. Finally, add soy sauce and cook for another minute or so.

How can I make aubergine with oyster sauce like in Chinese cuisine?

To make aubergine with oyster sauce like in Chinese cuisine, you need to stir-fry the aubergine with garlic and ginger until it's tender. Then, add oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar, and cook for another minute or so. You can also add some seafood, such as prawns or squid, to enhance the flavour.

Can you suggest a good vegetarian aubergine dish with Chinese flavours?

Yes, a good vegetarian aubergine dish with Chinese flavours is mapo tofu. This dish is made with tofu, aubergine, and a spicy sauce made with fermented black beans, chilli bean paste, and Sichuan peppercorns. It's a popular Sichuan dish that's full of flavour and perfect for vegetarians.

What's the secret to a tasty Chinese aubergine with minced pork?

The secret to a tasty Chinese aubergine with minced pork is to use the right seasoning. You need to marinate the minced pork with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch before cooking it. Then, stir-fry the aubergine with garlic and ginger until it's tender. Finally, add the minced pork and cook for another minute or so.

How do you properly prepare aubergine to enhance its taste?

To properly prepare aubergine to enhance its taste, you need to salt it before cooking. This will help to remove any bitterness and make it more tender. Cut the aubergine into small pieces and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse with water and pat dry before cooking.

Is consuming Chinese aubergine beneficial for your health?

Yes, consuming Chinese aubergine is beneficial for your health. It's low in calories and high in fibre, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. It's also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K.