How to Make Tender and Flavorful Braised Eggplant with Pepper

Braised eggplant with pepper is a rustic dish with a unique flavor, featuring the tender and rich texture of eggplant combined with the spicy kick of pepper and a savory sauce. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also perfect for adding warmth to family meals. Let’s explore how to prepare this delicious braised eggplant with pepper through the article below.

Ingredients Needed

To make tender and flavorful braised eggplant with pepper, you will need the following ingredients:

• Eggplant: 2-3 (about 400g)
• Shallots: 2
• Green onion roots: a few
• Fresh chili: 1-2 (depending on taste)
• Ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cooking oil: 1 tablespoon
• Sugar: 1-1.5 tablespoons
• Fish sauce: 3 tablespoons
• MSG: 1 teaspoon
• Water: 200ml
• Chopped green onions: for garnish

Ingredients for braised eggplant with pepper

Steps to Make Braised Eggplant with Pepper

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Cut the eggplant into bite-sized pieces and soak them in lightly salted water for about 10 minutes to prevent discoloration. Drain and set aside. Finely chop the shallots, cut the green onion roots into short pieces, and thinly slice the chili.

Step 2: Lightly Fry the Eggplant

Heat the oil in a pan. When the oil is hot, add the eggplant and lightly fry until the pieces are slightly golden. Remove and set aside. This step helps the eggplant retain its richness and prevents it from becoming mushy when braised.

Lightly frying the eggplant

Step 3: Make the Braising Sauce

Place a pot on the stove, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns a beautiful golden brown. Add the shallots and green onion roots and sauté until fragrant.

Once the mixture is aromatic, add 200ml of water, 1 teaspoon of MSG, 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sugar. Stir well and adjust the seasoning to taste.

Making the braising sauce

Step 4: Braise the Eggplant

Add the lightly fried eggplant to the pot with the sauce, gently stirring to ensure the eggplant is evenly coated with the flavors. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Occasionally stir gently to help the eggplant absorb the flavors.

Finally, turn off the heat and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper, chopped green onions, and a few slices of fresh chili to enhance the flavor.

Finished braised eggplant with pepper

Finished Product Requirements and Notes

The perfect braised eggplant with pepper should have an appealing color with a glossy finish from the sauce. The eggplant should be tender but not mushy, evenly seasoned, and have a characteristic richness. The sauce should be slightly thick and savory with the aroma of pepper and green onions.

Some important notes:

• When frying the eggplant, use medium heat to avoid burning.
• Do not stir too vigorously during braising to prevent the eggplant from breaking apart.
• Adjust the amount of chili and pepper according to your taste.
• Use fresh eggplant for the best flavor.

With this simple recipe, you can easily make tender and flavorful braised eggplant with pepper at home. Wishing you success and enjoyable meals with your family!