This Sautéed Eggplant with Spicy Tomato Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender eggplant with a rich and spicy tomato sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to please anyone who loves Mediterranean flavors.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- Eggplants: 3, sliced
- Salt: To taste
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
- Olive Oil: For cooking
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Water: A little, to dilute the tomato paste
- Chili Pepper: To taste
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): For topping
Directions
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Slice the eggplants and sprinkle them with salt. Let them drain for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Cook the Eggplants:
- Pat the eggplants dry, then coat them with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the eggplants, cover, and let them soften for 5 minutes.
- Continue cooking the eggplants for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender and slightly golden.
- Prepare the Spicy Tomato Sauce:
- In the same pan, push the eggplants to one side and add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and a little water to create a sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chili pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to cook over high heat for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Serve:
- Mix the sauce with the eggplants, ensuring they are well coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and, if desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Additional Information
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced dish.
- Cooking Tips:
- Salting the eggplants before cooking helps remove bitterness and excess moisture.
- Adjust the level of chili pepper according to your spice preference.
- Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants: Low in calories and rich in fiber and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats and enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Garlic: Offers immune-boosting properties and adds a delicious aroma.
- Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan (omit Parmesan)
- Gluten-Free
- Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: The combination of tender eggplants and spicy tomato sauce is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Healthy: Packed with nutritious ingredients, perfect for a wholesome meal.
Conclusion
This Sautéed Eggplant with Spicy Tomato Sauce is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and full of Mediterranean flavors. Whether you serve it as a side dish or the main event, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the rich, comforting taste of this eggplant dish with a touch of spice!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use other types of eggplant?
- Yes, you can use any variety of eggplant, including Japanese or Italian eggplants.
- How can I reduce the spiciness?
- Simply reduce or omit the chili pepper, or use a milder variety.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
- Is there a substitute for cornstarch?
- You can use flour or arrowroot powder as a substitute.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Yes, bell peppers or zucchini would be great additions to this dish.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan for a vegan option?
- You can use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute.
- Can I make the sauce with fresh tomatoes?
- Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes for fresh ones. Just cook them down until they’re soft and sauce-like.
- What type of oil is best for this recipe?
- Olive oil is recommended for its flavor, but you can use any cooking oil you prefer.
- Can I grill the eggplants instead of sautéing them?
- Yes, grilling the eggplants adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
- How do I prevent the eggplants from becoming too oily?
- Make sure to drain and pat them dry before cooking, and avoid using too much oil in the pan.