Eggplant Braised with Peanuts: Delicious Recipe, Easy to Make at Home

Are you a fan of rich braised dishes and looking for a new recipe? Let Sổ Tay Món Ăn introduce you to eggplant braised with peanuts – a unique combination of the sweet softness of eggplant, the nutty aroma of roasted peanuts, and a savory sauce. Not only is it delicious, but this dish also offers numerous nutritional benefits, easily winning over the palates of every family member.

Eggplant braised with peanuts – a dish rich in homemade flavor

Why You Should Try Eggplant Braised with Peanuts?

Eggplant braised with peanuts is not only appealing for its flavor but also for its high nutritional value. It’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or chilly days when you crave something hearty.

Nutritional Benefits of Eggplant and Peanuts

• Eggplant: Rich in fiber, vitamin B6, and minerals like potassium and magnesium. These nutrients help improve heart health, support digestion, and boost immunity.
• Peanuts: A rich source of plant-based protein, containing monounsaturated fats that help lower bad cholesterol and protect the cardiovascular system.

With this combination, eggplant braised with peanuts is not only tasty but also very healthy.

Ingredients Needed for Eggplant Braised with Peanuts

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Eggplant: 3 (choose fresh ones with shiny skin and green stems)
• Roasted peanuts: 100g (lightly crushed)
• Scallions and cilantro: a small amount of each
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Chili: 1 (optional, to taste)
• Seasonings: fish sauce, sugar, cooking oil, seasoning powder, pepper

Ingredients for eggplant braised with peanuts

Tips for Choosing Good Eggplant

• Prioritize eggplants with dark purple, shiny skin, not wrinkled or bruised.
• Gently press the body of the eggplant; if it feels soft, it’s young, less seedy, and tastier.

Detailed Recipe for Eggplant Braised with Peanuts

Here are the step-by-step instructions to make eggplant braised with peanuts at home:

1. Preparing the Ingredients

• Wash the eggplants, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 4-5cm), and soak in lightly salted water for about 15 minutes to prevent discoloration.
• Lightly crush the roasted peanuts, wash and finely chop the scallions and cilantro.
• Mince the garlic and slice the chili (if you like it spicy).

2. Frying the Eggplant

• Heat oil in a pan, then add the eggplant and fry until slightly golden and soft. Remove and drain the oil.

3. Making the Sauce

• Mix 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of seasoning powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

4. Braising the Eggplant

• Sauté the minced garlic in a pan until fragrant, then add the fried eggplant and gently stir.
• Pour the prepared sauce into the pan and simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens and is absorbed by the eggplant.

5. Finishing the Dish

• Add the crushed roasted peanuts to the pan and mix well.
• Add the chopped scallions and cilantro, turn off the heat, and serve on a plate.

How to make eggplant braised with peanuts

Tips for Better Cooking

• Soaking eggplant in diluted saltwater helps remove bitterness and maintain its color.
• Adding a bit of fresh coconut water while braising will give the dish a natural sweetness and refreshing taste.
• If you like it spicy, you can add chili powder or sate to the sauce.

“Eggplant braised with peanuts is a rustic dish full of homemade flavor. I often cook it on rainy days, and it’s perfect with hot rice!” – Food expert Nguyễn Thị Thu Hương.

Enjoying Eggplant Braised with Peanuts

Eggplant braised with peanuts is best enjoyed hot with white rice. The creamy richness of the peanuts, the sweet softness of the eggplant, and the savory sauce are sure to captivate you.

Presentation Suggestions

• Sprinkle some extra roasted peanuts on top to enhance the flavor.
• Garnish with a few cilantro sprigs or slices of red chili for an appealing look.

Enjoying eggplant braised with peanuts

“This dish of eggplant braised with peanuts is not just delicious but also brings back memories of my childhood. Every time I cook it, I think of my grandmother who taught me how to make it.” – Chef Lê Văn Minh.

Conclusion

With just a few simple steps, you can complete a delicious and nutritious dish of eggplant braised with peanuts. It’s perfect for the whole family, especially on chilly days. Try this recipe and share your results with Sổ Tay Món Ăn. Wishing you success and a delicious meal!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Eggplant Braised with Peanuts

1. Can I store eggplant braised with peanuts in the refrigerator?

• Yes! You can store the dish in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Just reheat it before eating.

2. If I don’t like peanuts, can I use a different ingredient?

• You can replace peanuts with roasted cashews or sesame seeds for a unique flavor.

3. Can vegetarians make this dish?

• Absolutely! Just replace the fish sauce with soy sauce or vegetarian seasoning.

4. How do I keep the eggplant from getting mushy when braising?

• Frying the eggplant briefly before braising helps maintain its shape and texture.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

• You can add mushrooms, tofu, or carrots to increase the nutritional value and flavor.