Asian Grilled Eggplant
A delightful dish combining the rich texture of eggplant with aromatic flavors for a healthy, plant-based meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 large eggplants Juicy and succulent, they form the base of our dish.
- 1 tbsp oil A light coating that helps enhance the grilling process.
- 1.5 tbsp coconut aminos A savory alternative to soy sauce, adding depth to the flavor.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar Its tangy brightness complements the richness of the eggplant.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil This brings out a warm nutty taste and aroma.
- 1 inch piece ginger Fresh and zesty, it adds a wonderful kick.
- 1 clove garlic Savory and aromatic, it enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp almond butter Creamy and nutty, it binds the sauce together beautifully.
- 0.5 cup chopped toasted cashews or peanuts Crispy and crunchy, they add texture.
- 0.5 cup chopped scallions Fresh and slightly oniony, providing brightness.
- 1 tsp sesame seeds These tiny seeds add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove the stem from the top of each eggplant, then cut the eggplants into 1-inch thick, long thin slices. Expect to get about 4-5 slices per eggplant.
- Heat your BBQ, grill pan, or sandwich press to medium heat.
- Brush each slice of eggplant with the oil and grill them for approximately 5 minutes on each side, until grill marks form and the texture becomes soft and tender.
- Once the eggplant slices are beautifully golden brown and tender, remove them from the grill and let them cool.
- Cut the grilled slices into 1-inch wide large pieces and transfer them to a large bowl.
Sauce Preparation
- In a Nutribullet or high-speed blender, combine the coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and almond butter. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Pour the smooth sauce over the cooled eggplant pieces and toss gently to ensure each piece is well coated.
- Add the chopped cashews and scallions, and give it one last toss before serving.
- Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top to add a finishing touch.
Notes
Choose ripe eggplants for the best results. Do not overcrowd the grill for proper searing. Allowing the eggplant to cool helps the flavors meld beautifully. Experiment with spices by adding red pepper flakes for heat.