Cooking Aubergine Chinese Style: A Delicious and Exotic Culinary Adventure

Aubergine, also known as eggplant, is a popular vegetable in Chinese cuisine, and cooking it Chinese style can be a truly delicious and exotic culinary adventure. With its meaty texture and versatile flavor, aubergine can be prepared in a variety of ways, from stir-fries and braises to steaming and roasting. In this article, we will explore the art of cooking aubergine Chinese style, including the different techniques, ingredients, and recipes that will help you to create authentic and mouth-watering Chinese dishes.

Understanding Chinese Cooking Techniques

Before we dive into the world of aubergine cooking, it’s essential to understand the fundamental techniques of Chinese cooking. Chinese cuisine is known for its emphasis on quick cooking methods, which help to preserve the texture and flavor of the ingredients. Some of the most common Chinese cooking techniques include:

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a popular Chinese cooking technique that involves quickly cooking ingredients in a wok or large skillet over high heat. This technique is ideal for cooking aubergine, as it helps to preserve its texture and flavor.

Braising

Braising is a cooking technique that involves cooking ingredients in liquid over low heat for an extended period. This technique is perfect for cooking aubergine, as it helps to tenderize the vegetable and infuse it with flavor.

Steaming

Steaming is a healthy and easy way to cook aubergine, and it’s a popular technique in Chinese cuisine. Steaming helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the aubergine, and it’s a great way to cook the vegetable without adding extra oil.

Choosing the Right Aubergine

When it comes to cooking aubergine Chinese style, it’s essential to choose the right type of aubergine. There are several varieties of aubergine available, including the popular Japanese aubergine, Chinese aubergine, and Italian aubergine. For Chinese cooking, it’s best to use the Chinese aubergine, which is also known as the “oriental aubergine.” This variety of aubergine is slender and elongated, with a deep purple color and a tender texture.

How to Select the Best Aubergine

When selecting an aubergine, look for one that is firm and heavy for its size. The skin should be smooth and glossy, with no signs of wrinkles or blemishes. Avoid aubergines with soft spots or bruises, as they can be bitter and unpalatable.

Preparing Aubergine for Chinese Cooking

Before cooking aubergine Chinese style, it’s essential to prepare the vegetable properly. Here are some tips for preparing aubergine:

Salting the Aubergine

Salting the aubergine is an essential step in Chinese cooking, as it helps to remove excess moisture and bitterness from the vegetable. To salt the aubergine, simply slice it into thin pieces and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let the aubergine sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse it with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

Cutting the Aubergine

Cutting the aubergine is an art in Chinese cooking, and the way you cut the vegetable can affect the final dish. For stir-fries and braises, it’s best to cut the aubergine into thin slices or cubes. For steaming, you can cut the aubergine into larger pieces or leave it whole.

Chinese Aubergine Recipes

Now that we’ve covered the basics of Chinese cooking techniques and aubergine preparation, it’s time to explore some delicious Chinese aubergine recipes. Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Stir-Fried Aubergine with Garlic and Ginger

This is a classic Chinese recipe that is quick and easy to make. Here’s what you need:

To make this recipe, simply heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the aubergine and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until it’s tender and lightly browned. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.

Braised Aubergine with Pork and Mushrooms

This is a hearty and flavorful recipe that is perfect for special occasions. Here’s what you need:

To make this recipe, simply heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the pork and cook until it’s browned, then add the mushrooms and cook until they’re tender. Add the aubergine, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the aubergine is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Steamed Aubergine with Sesame Oil and Soy Sauce

This is a simple and healthy recipe that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Here’s what you need:

To make this recipe, simply cut the aubergine into large pieces and place it in a steamer basket. Steam the aubergine over boiling water for 5-7 minutes, until it’s tender. Drizzle with sesame oil and soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Conclusion

Cooking aubergine Chinese style is a delicious and exotic culinary adventure that can add variety and excitement to your meals. With its meaty texture and versatile flavor, aubergine can be prepared in a variety of ways, from stir-fries and braises to steaming and roasting. By understanding the fundamental techniques of Chinese cooking and selecting the right type of aubergine, you can create authentic and mouth-watering Chinese dishes that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, cooking aubergine Chinese style is a great way to explore the world of Chinese cuisine and discover new flavors and techniques.

What is the best type of aubergine to use for Chinese cooking?

The best type of aubergine to use for Chinese cooking is the Asian or Japanese variety, which is typically smaller and more slender than the Western variety. This type of aubergine has a thinner skin and a more delicate flavor, making it ideal for stir-frying and braising.

When selecting aubergines for Chinese cooking, look for ones that are firm and have a glossy skin. Avoid aubergines that are soft or have brown spots, as they may be overripe or damaged. You can usually find Asian-style aubergines at Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets.

How do I prepare aubergine for Chinese cooking?

To prepare aubergine for Chinese cooking, start by cutting off the stem end and slicing the aubergine into thin strips or cubes, depending on the desired texture. Remove any seeds or excess moisture from the aubergine, as this can make it difficult to cook evenly.

Next, sprinkle the aubergine with salt to draw out excess moisture and help it cook more evenly. Let the aubergine sit for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse it with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is called “curing” the aubergine, and it helps to remove bitterness and excess moisture.

What are some common Chinese seasonings used in aubergine dishes?

Some common Chinese seasonings used in aubergine dishes include soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. These seasonings add depth and umami flavor to aubergine dishes, and can be used in combination to create a rich and savory sauce.

Other common seasonings used in Chinese aubergine dishes include ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. These ingredients add a spicy and aromatic flavor to aubergine dishes, and can be used in combination with other seasonings to create a complex and balanced flavor profile.

How do I prevent aubergine from becoming too oily or greasy?

To prevent aubergine from becoming too oily or greasy, it’s essential to cook it at high heat and use a small amount of oil. Stir-frying is a great way to cook aubergine, as it allows you to quickly cook the aubergine in a small amount of oil.

Another way to prevent aubergine from becoming too oily is to use a non-stick pan or wok. These types of pans are designed to prevent food from sticking and absorbing excess oil, making them ideal for cooking aubergine and other delicate ingredients.

Can I use aubergine in place of other vegetables in Chinese recipes?

Aubergine can be used in place of other vegetables in some Chinese recipes, but it’s not always a direct substitute. Aubergine has a unique texture and flavor that can change the character of a dish, so it’s essential to adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly.

For example, aubergine can be used in place of bell peppers or zucchini in some stir-fry recipes, but it may require a longer cooking time to become tender. On the other hand, aubergine may not be suitable for dishes that require a crunchy texture, such as salads or slaws.

How do I store leftover aubergine dishes?

Leftover aubergine dishes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When storing leftover aubergine dishes, make sure to cool them to room temperature first to prevent bacterial growth.

When reheating leftover aubergine dishes, make sure to heat them to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat aubergine dishes in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop, depending on the desired texture and flavor.

Are there any health benefits to eating aubergine?

Aubergine is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers several health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Aubergine is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for weight management and digestive health.

Aubergine is also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help to protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, aubergine contains a range of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.