To start, you’ll need to marinate the eggplants. Cut 2 medium-sized eggplants into small, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of red pepper paste, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and ½ tablespoon of minced garlic. Add the eggplant pieces to the bowl and make sure that they are coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
When it’s time to cook, add 1 cup of vegetable oil to a pan and let it heat up. Fry the marinated eggplant pieces until they are golden-brown, slightly crispy, and cooked through. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
For the spicy sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of red pepper paste, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and ½ tablespoon of minced garlic in a small bowl.
To serve, place the fried eggplant pieces on a plate and drizzle the spicy sauce over the top. Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds for the perfect finishing touch.
Now that you have the recipe, let’s talk about why it’s so great. Firstly, eggplants are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for a healthy body. Secondly, the marination process infuses the eggplant with flavor, making it more delicious and nutritious. And lastly, the spicy sauce not only adds heat to the dish, but also balances out the flavor profile and gives it a zingy kick.
Fried spicy marinated eggplants can be served as an appetizer or side dish with your favorite main course. It’s also perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike, making it a versatile dish to share with friends and family.
One thing to note is that eggplants can absorb a lot of oil while frying. To make the dish healthier, you can try cooking the eggplants in the oven by placing them in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and baking them at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. This way, they still come out crispy, but with less oil.
In conclusion, fried spicy marinated eggplants are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. With its smoky, tangy, and spicy flavor profile, it’s sure to please any palate. It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be customized to your liking. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!