Szechuan Spicy Eggplant

Ingredients and Weight:

• Eggplant: 3 lbs (1.4 kg)
• Pork mince: 12 oz (340 g)
• Green onion: 3 stalks, chopped
• Ginger: 2 inches (5 cm), minced
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Szechuan peppercorns: 1 tbsp (10 g), crushed
• Chili flakes: 1/2 tbsp (5 g)
• Soy sauce: 3 tbsp (45 ml)
• Hoisin sauce: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
• Rice wine vinegar: 1 tbsp (15 ml)
• Sesame oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cut the eggplant into 1-inch cubes. Toss with 1 tablespoon of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. Rinse the eggplant with cold water and pat dry.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the pork mince and drain any excess fat.
4. Add the ginger, garlic, green onion, and Szechuan peppercorns to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Add the eggplant and cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly softened.
6. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the eggplant mixture and stir to combine.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the sauce has thickened.
8. Stir in the chili flakes and cook for an additional minute.
9. Serve immediately garnished with additional green onion and sesame seeds.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g

Dish Characteristics:

• Delectable blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors
• Tender eggplant with a crispy exterior
• Aromatic with the fragrance of Szechuan peppercorns
• Visually appealing with bright colors and textures

User Comments:

• "The perfect balance of spice and flavor! The eggplant was cooked to perfection."
• "I loved the crispy texture and the rich, savory sauce."
• "This dish was a delightful addition to our Chinese food night and left a lingering warmth in our mouths."
• "Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys spicy Szechuan cuisine."
• "A must-try for eggplant enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Chinese experience."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you can't tolerate spicy food, reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether.
• To intensify the Szechuan flavor, use more Szechuan peppercorns.
• To save time, you can buy pre-crushed Szechuan peppercorns.
• The eggplant will release more moisture if you salt it for a longer duration. Pat it thoroughly dry before cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.