Perfect Sautéed Eggplant [+ Maple Soy Glaze]
This sautéed eggplant features cubed eggplant cooked until golden brown with garlic, finished with a maple soy glaze that adds sweet and salty depth. The method uses high heat and minimal stirring to achieve a caramelized crust while keeping the interior tender. Garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, and crushed red pepper enhance flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1 eggplant cut into 1-inch cubes (not peeled
- 3 garlic thinly sliced, cloves
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 prings green onion thinly sliced
- crushed red pepper optional, for garnish
- sesame seeds for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, agave or maple syrup, and water.
- In a large pan with a lid, over medium-high heat, add the oil.
- Carefully add the cubed eggplant to the pan and cook for 2 minutes each side or until golden brown. Add the garlic and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is nice and brown, but not burned.
- Turn off the heat, add the sauce, black pepper, mix well and cover with a lid. Let it sit covered for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions, and optional crushed red pepper, or sesame seeds.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Cut eggplant into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Use high heat to minimize oil absorption and promote caramelization.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and steaming.
- Limit stirring to only when flipping pieces to encourage a crisp crust.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 88
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 88kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g | 3% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Sodium | 506mg | 21% |
| Potassium | 297mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 8g | 16% |
| Vitamin A | 35IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 4mg | 4% |
| Calcium | 22mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.