Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

Name: Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water; Green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Transform your dinner routine with this delicious Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce recipe. Tender, velvety eggplant is sautéed to perfection and coated in a rich, flavorful garlic sauce that balances sweet and savory notes. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this Asian-inspired dish is a must-try for any home cook looking to elevate their culinary repertoire.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-02T12:01:19.582Z

This dish is a favorite among many and is often served in Chinese restaurants. The combination of garlic and eggplant creates an irresistible flavor that pairs well with rice or noodles.

Cooking with Eggplant

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable that plays a significant role in various cuisines around the world. This recipe highlights the unique texture and flavor of eggplant, which becomes wonderfully tender when cooked. Known for its rich, creamy consistency, eggplant easily absorbs flavors, making it an ideal candidate for bold sauces like garlic sauce. When selecting eggplants, look for those that are firm and have smooth, shiny skin. This ensures you’re choosing a fresh vegetable that will enhance your dish.

In this Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce recipe, the eggplant is sautéed to perfection, allowing it to soak up the garlicky goodness, while also providing a beautiful color contrast to your plate. Sautéing not only preserves the eggplant’s nutrients but also enhances its natural sweetness. This makes the dish not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to fried options. Additionally, eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a fantastic choice for any meal.

The Garlic Sauce Magic

The garlic sauce in this recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that truly elevates the humble eggplant. Made with a few simple ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar, this sauce brings a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Garlic, the star of this sauce, is known for its aromatic properties and numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. When sautéed, garlic releases its natural oils, contributing a delightful fragrance to your kitchen.

To achieve the perfect garlic sauce, it's essential to mix the ingredients well before adding them to the pan. This ensures that every bite of eggplant is fully coated in the rich flavors of the sauce. The addition of cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the eggplant. This technique not only enhances the taste but also elevates the dish’s visual appeal, making it an impressive option for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce can be served as a main dish or a delightful side. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures, making it both satisfying and comforting. The dish also pairs well with protein-rich foods, such as sautéed tofu or grilled chicken, providing a wholesome and fulfilling experience. For those who enjoy a family-style dining experience, consider serving the eggplant in a communal bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh green onions – their vibrant color and mild onion flavor enhance the dish’s overall presentation. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sauce perfectly. This dish also reheats well, making it a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers. Enjoy this savory dish as part of a larger feast, or simply savor it on its own!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Green onions, for garnish

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before beginning.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the dish:

Sauté the Eggplant

In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant and sauté until it becomes tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.

Combine and Thicken

Add the sauce to the pan with eggplant and stir. Then, add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with green onions before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Nutritional Benefits of Eggplant

Eggplant is a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals essential for a balanced diet. It's particularly rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it an excellent choice for weight management. Additionally, eggplants are a good source of antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which helps protect cells from damage. Eating eggplant can also support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving blood circulation.

Incorporating eggplant into your meals can lead to a variety of health benefits. Its low-calorie content allows you to enjoy generous portions without overeating, which is especially beneficial for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Plus, eggplants are versatile in cooking, fitting seamlessly into various dishes beyond Asian cuisine, such as Mediterranean and Italian recipes.

Storage Tips

To ensure your eggplants remain fresh and flavorful, store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Ideally, keep them in the refrigerator's vegetable drawer, where they can last for about a week. If you notice any soft spots or wrinkles, be sure to use them promptly, as these are signs of aging. Alternatively, you can freeze cooked eggplant dishes like this garlic sauce recipe for longer storage; just be mindful that the texture may change slightly upon freezing.

If you have leftover Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should maintain its quality for up to three days, ensuring you can enjoy the flavors again without the hassle of cooking from scratch. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal that retains its delicious taste.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add a touch of heat by incorporating chili garlic sauce or fresh red chili slices for those who enjoy spicy dishes. You can also experiment with additional vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor. This versatility makes the dish not only delicious but also adaptable to what you have on hand.

If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding cooked ground meat, tofu, or tempeh to your eggplant dish. Adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain a balance of flavors. These variations allow you to make it your own while still enjoying the essence of the original recipe, ensuring it remains a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can mix in bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and gluten-free if using tamari instead of soy sauce.