Chinese eggplants stir-fried with Sichuan pepper are a fragrant and spicy dish typical of Sichuan cuisine (province in southwest China). This dish highlights tender eggplants, enveloped in a sauce rich in flavors, while being spiced up by the famous Sichuan pepper, which brings a slightly numbing sensation and a unique lemony note. Easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for those looking to explore the more complex flavors of Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients
Preparation
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Prepare the eggplants:
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Wash and cut the eggplants into cubes or sticks 5 cm long. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Rinse and dry the eggplants with a clean cloth.
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Sauté the eggplants:
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Heat a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the eggplant and sauté for about 8 to 10 minutes, until tender and lightly browned. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.
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Prepare the Sichuan pepper sauce:
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In the same pan, add the Sichuan pepper and dry roast it for about 30 seconds until it releases its aroma. Then add the ginger and garlic, and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes.
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Assemble the dish:
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Return the eggplants to the pan. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Mix gently to coat the eggplants well. Let simmer over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes.
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Serve :
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Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot, with rice or noodles for a complete meal.