Steamed eggplant with sesame paste offers a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, showcasing the versatility of this humble vegetable. Forget greasy fried eggplant – this recipe delivers a healthy and surprisingly satisfying dish, perfect as a light lunch, a vibrant side, or even a sophisticated appetizer. The gentle steaming method preserves the eggplant's natural sweetness and creates a tender interior, beautifully complemented by the nutty richness of sesame paste. A simple yet elegant dish, it's perfect for those seeking a quick and flavorful meal without compromising on nutritional value.
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and requires minimal ingredients. Ready to discover the magic of steamed eggplant with a zesty sesame paste topping? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Rice Cooker
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Brinjal (Eggplant)
- Spring Onion
- Garlic and Ginger Paste
- Green Chilies: 2
- Sesame Seeds (pasted)
- Sesame Oil
- Salt
- Soy Sauce
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Eggplant
- Wash and cut the brinjal in half.
- Steam the brinjal for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through (around 5 minutes).
- Once cooked, remove from steamer and let cool.
- Shred the cooled brinjal.
Step 2. Season and Mix
- Finely chop the spring onion.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded brinjal with salt.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, sesame paste (or sesame oil), soy sauce, and finely chopped green chilies. Mix gently.
Step 3. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with spring onion.
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- If using sesame seeds, mix them with a little water to create a paste.
- Be gentle when mixing to avoid mashing the eggplant.
- Adjust the amount of chili to your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-12gg
- Carbs: 15-20gg
- Protein: 2-3gg
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of sesame seeds?
Yes! While white sesame seeds are used in this recipe for their mild flavor, you can substitute them with black sesame seeds for a more intense, nutty taste. Toasted sesame seeds will also add a nice crunch.
2. What if my eggplant is too watery after steaming?
Gently squeeze out excess moisture from the steamed eggplant before adding the sesame seeds and any other seasonings. This will prevent a soggy dish and ensure better flavor absorption.
This simple recipe proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender eggplant and nutty sesame seeds – a satisfying and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoy this recipe and are encouraged to experiment with different seasonings and additions to create your own unique variation!