Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful fusion of flavors in our Fried Aubergine with Miso Sauce! This Japanese-inspired dish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, golden-brown aubergine slices, perfectly complemented by a rich and savory miso sauce. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something unique for dinner, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into the world of umami and discover how to create this mouthwatering dish that will leave your guests in awe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large aubergine, sliced
- 1/4 cup miso paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the aubergine. Rinse the large aubergine under cold water, then slice it into 1/2 inch thick rounds. If desired, you can also cut the slices in half to create half-moon shapes.
- Place the sliced aubergine in a colander and sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the slices. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness from the aubergine.
- While the aubergine is draining, prepare the miso sauce. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of miso paste, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- After 10 minutes, rinse the salted aubergine slices under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of aubergine into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Carefully add the aubergine slices to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the slices halfway through cooking.
- Once the aubergine slices are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- To serve, arrange the fried aubergine slices on a serving platter. Drizzle the prepared miso sauce generously over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish for garnish, adding a nice crunch and visual appeal.
- Enjoy your delicious Fried Aubergine with Miso Sauce as an appetizer or a side dish!
Tips
- Selecting the Right Aubergine: Choose a large, firm aubergine with smooth skin for the best texture. Look for one that feels heavy for its size, as this indicates freshness.
- Salting the Aubergine: Don't skip the salting step! This technique not only removes excess moisture but also helps to mellow the natural bitterness of the aubergine, resulting in a sweeter flavor.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying. If it's too cool, the aubergine will absorb more oil and become greasy; too hot, and they may burn before cooking through. A small test piece of aubergine can help you find the sweet spot.
- Batch Cooking: Fry the aubergine in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows for even cooking and ensures that each slice gets that perfect crispy texture.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, serve the fried aubergine with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with other Japanese favorites like sushi or ramen.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Feel free to get creative with your garnishes! Chopped green onions, chili flakes, or even a drizzle of sesame oil can elevate the dish even further.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delectable dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
