Sweet and Sour Eggplant Recipe
Category: Side Dish
Servings: 4
Sweet and Sour Eggplant is a delicious and flavorful side dish that perfectly balances the tangy richness of vinegar with the subtle sweetness of sugar, complemented by the fresh flavors of herbs. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal accompaniment to a wide variety of main courses. Whether you’re preparing a casual meal or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will surely impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Eggplant
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplants | 780g |
| White Wine Vinegar | 40g |
| Sugar | 40g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 40g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh Mint | to taste |
| Fresh Basil | to taste |
| Fine Salt | to taste |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fats | 8g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Sugars | 8g |
Instructions for Sweet and Sour Eggplant
-
Prepare the Eggplants
Begin by washing and drying the eggplants thoroughly. Once clean, trim off the ends and slice the eggplants into rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. -
-
Prep the Garlic and Herbs
Peel and thinly slice the garlic. Wash and gently dry the fresh mint and basil leaves. Set the herbs aside to be added later in the cooking process. -
Cook the Garlic
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 40g of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced garlic and sauté it until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. -
Cook the Eggplants
Add the sliced eggplant pieces to the skillet with the garlic. Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Cook the eggplants, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to take on a golden color. This step should take about 7-10 minutes. -
Add the Sweet and Sour Mixture
Once the eggplants are cooked, it’s time to add the sweet and sour elements. Pour in 40g of white wine vinegar, followed by 40g of sugar, and a pinch of salt to taste. Stir gently to ensure the eggplants are well-coated with the mixture. -
Incorporate the Herbs
Add the fresh mint and basil leaves to the skillet. Stir them in delicately, allowing the herbs to infuse the dish with their fragrant aromas. The heat from the pan will help release the essential oils from the herbs, enhancing the overall flavor. -
Season and Adjust
Season the dish with black pepper and adjust the salt if necessary. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. The vinegar and sugar will create a beautiful glossy glaze over the eggplant. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the eggplants are tender and the sweet and sour glaze has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the sweet and sour eggplant warm, garnished with a few additional fresh mint and basil leaves if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Tips for Success
- Eggplant Preparation: To avoid bitterness in your eggplant, you can salt the slices and let them sit for about 20 minutes before cooking. This will draw out any excess moisture and bitterness, ensuring your dish has a smoother flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different twist. You can also adjust the vinegar and sugar balance depending on how tangy or sweet you prefer the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this sweet and sour eggplant as a side dish to accompany grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. It also makes a great topping for salads or a topping for crostini.
Enjoy this vibrant and delicious Sweet and Sour Eggplant as a unique side dish that offers a blend of tangy, sweet, and herbal flavors. Perfect for family meals or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
