Appetizer

Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant Recipe With Garlic Sauce Recipe

Name: Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant Recipe With Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 4 tbsp Neutral Cooking Oil; 3 Long Asian Eggplants; 1 tsp Grated Ginger; 7 cloves Fresh Garlic, finely minced; 2 tbsp Mushroom-Based Oyster Sauce; 1 tbsp Shaoxing Wine; 2 stalks Spring Onion, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce; 1 tbsp Chinese Black Vinegar; 2 Red Chilies, finely chopped; 1 tsp Brown Sugar; 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil; 1 tbsp Roasted Sesame Seeds

Iris Miller August 3, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Chinese eggplant with garlic sauce is a flavorful dish that shines with the right pairings. Steamed jasmine rice is ideal, soaking up the savory sauce and adding a fluffy texture to each bite.

For protein, grilled chicken or marinated tofu work beautifully, absorbing the rich flavors of the garlic sauce. Stir-fried bok choy or similar greens add a crisp, fresh contrast to the tender eggplant.

If you want an appetizer, spring rolls filled with fresh veggies or shrimp make a perfect start. Now, let’s dive into making this vibrant, restaurant-style dish in just 20 minutes.

Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant Recipe With Garlic Sauce Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish that’s quick, easy, and ridiculously flavorful? Look no further. Today, I’m sharing my take on Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant With Garlic Sauce.

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fits perfectly into a busy schedule. With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll create a mouthwatering meal in no time.

What is Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant With Garlic Sauce?

This dish combines tender Asian eggplants with bold garlic, sweet soy sauce, and a hint of heat from red chilies. The use of mushroom-based oyster sauce enhances the umami flavor without the need for seafood, making it a vegetarian delight.

My inspiration stems from my experiences at local Chinese restaurants where the eggplant dishes are always a hit. Here, it’s all about simplicity and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it utilizes easy-to-find ingredients that pack a punch. The balance between sweet, savory, and spicy flavors keeps every bite interesting.

Additionally, everything cooks together in one pan, saving you both time and cleanup.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Ingredients

4 tbsp Neutral Cooking Oil
3 Long Asian Eggplants
1 tsp Grated Ginger
7 cloves Fresh Garlic, finely minced
2 tbsp Mushroom-Based Oyster Sauce (vegetarian)
1 tbsp Shaoxing Wine
2 stalks Spring Onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce
1 tbsp Chinese Black Vinegar
2 Red Chilies, finely chopped
1 tsp Brown Sugar
1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil
1 tbsp Roasted Sesame Seeds

These ingredients come together to create a dish that is not just a meal, but an experience.

How to Make Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant With Garlic Sauce?

In the next few sections, we will peel back the layers of this recipe. You’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions that will guide you in crafting this culinary delight.

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants

Start by washing your Asian eggplants under cool water. Slice them lengthwise into quarters and then crosswise into bite-sized pieces. You want them to be easy to handle, especially for quick cooking and delicious eating.

Step 2: Soak in Saltwater

Once chopped, place the pieces in a bowl of salted water. This step helps reduce bitterness and ensures your eggplant becomes tender. Let them soak for about 10 minutes while you prep the sauce.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the mushroom-based oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic. The mix should look rich, inviting, and fragrant. This combo is where all the magic happens.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Grab your wok or a large skillet and turn the heat to medium-high. Add the neutral cooking oil.

It’s ready when a sizzle greets your ears as you sprinkle in the minced ginger and sliced chilies. You’ll want to cook them until fragrant—about 30 seconds to a minute.

Step 5: Add the Eggplant

After the oil is hot and aromatic, drain the eggplant pieces and toss them in. Stir-fry them for about 5 to 7 minutes. They should soften and begin to take on color, becoming vibrant and glossy.

Step 6: Introduce the Sauce

Now it’s time to pour in the sauce mixture you prepared earlier. Stir everything together, ensuring the eggplants are coated evenly. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld while thickening slightly.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Finally, drizzle in the toasted sesame oil and sprinkle the roasted sesame seeds and sliced spring onions on top. You’re moments away from enjoying this culinary creation!

How to make Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant Recipe With Garlic Sauce Recipe

Tips for Perfect Eggplant

Choose the Right Eggplant: Long Asian eggplants are ideal for this recipe. They are sweeter and less bitter than their Italian counterparts.
Salting the Eggplant: This step is crucial. Salt not only removes moisture but helps the eggplants maintain a nice texture.
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the eggplant to brown, which brings out its natural sweetness.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the number of red chilies or omit them altogether.
Throw in Extra Veggies: Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for additional flavors and textures.

How to Store Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, place the eggplant in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave before serving again. The flavors often deepen overnight!

Nutrition Information

Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant Recipe With Garlic Sauce Recipe Nutrition Facts

How Would I Recommend Serving Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant With Garlic Sauce?

1. Over Rice: Serve the eggplant atop a steaming mound of jasmine rice. The rice will soak up the garlic sauce deliciously.

2. With Stir-Fried Noodles: Pair it with stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal. The noodles complement the sauce perfectly, creating a unified dish.

3. Alongside a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the eggplant with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. The crunch will add a refreshing contrast.

4. As Part of a Family Feast: Include this dish in a larger spread of Chinese dishes. It’s a fantastic addition to any dinner party.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

Mushroom-Based Oyster Sauce: Use Hoisin Sauce for a sweeter flavor. It still offers depth but alters the taste profile slightly.
Shaoxing Wine: If you can’t find it, a splash of dry sherry or even white wine will work in a pinch.
Chinese Black Vinegar: Substitute with balsamic vinegar. While the taste isn’t identical, it will provide a nice sweetness.
Spring Onions: Green onions work just as well. They’ll lend that same fresh crunch you desire.

Conclusion

Ready to bring the taste of a vibrant Chinese restaurant to your home kitchen? With Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant With Garlic Sauce, you’ll create a flavorful dish in no time.

Not only is it simple, but it also celebrates plant-based eating beautifully. Your family and friends will love this recipe.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a satisfying meal that stands out at any table. Happy cooking!

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Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant Recipe With Garlic Sauce Recipe

Author: Iris Miller Cuisine: Chinese Courses: Appetizer

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 20 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 283

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Have you ever craved a dish that’s quick, easy, and ridiculously flavorful? Look no further. Today, I’m sharing my take on Restaurant Styled 20 Minutes Chinese Eggplant With Garlic Sauce.