Sautéed eggplant with aromatic basil and a hint of heat.
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Nutrition per Serving
Ingredients
Estimated total cost: €8.15 · €2.04/serving
- Pinch of exquisite kosher salt flakes (season to taste for optimal flavor)Est. price €0.02–€0.05
- 3 tablespoons of pristine extra-virgin olive oil, separated (use a high-quality oil for best taste)Est. price €0.45–€1.20
- 1 cup of aromatic basil leaves, with extra for garnish (tear basil leaves for release of oils)Est. price €2.50–€4.50
- 2 tablespoons of unseasoned rice vinegar (adjust vinegar amount based on desired tanginess)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
- 2 teaspoons of rich tamari or soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free option)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
- 1 pound of premium ground pork, ground chicken, tempeh crumbles, or crumbled tofu (choose protein according to dietary preferences)Est. price €4.00–€12.00
- 3 garlic cloves, elegantly thinly sliced (lightly sauté garlic for sweet aroma)Est. price €0.15–€0.30
- 2 red chiles, like cayenne, Fresno, or jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped (wear gloves when handling spicy chiles)Est. price €0.40–€0.80
- 1 tablespoon of golden honey (warm honey slightly for easier pouring)Est. price €0.25–€0.60
- 1 teaspoon of fragrant toasted sesame seeds (toast seeds in dry pan for enhanced nuttiness)Est. price €0.08–€0.20
Steps
- 1Begin by finely chopping the chiles, then combine them in a small bowl with honey and salt. Allow the mixture to rest until you are prepared to use it.
- 2Begin by cutting the eggplants into 3-inch pieces crosswise, then quarter them lengthwise. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the eggplant to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and just tender-crisp, which should take approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, transfer the cooked eggplant to a plate.
Cultural note
The Basil Eggplant Stir-Fry with Spices is a fusion dish that combines Asian flavors with a Western cooking technique. It showcases the use of traditional Asian ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds, reflecting a blend of culinary influences.
Seasonal note
This Basil Eggplant Stir-Fry with Spices is best made in the late summer to early fall when eggplants and basil are in season, providing the freshest and most flavorful ingredients for the dish.
Health note
This stir-fry dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C from the vegetables and herbs. However, it is high in fat and sodium, so it's recommended to moderate intake, especially for individuals watching their fat and sodium intake.
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