Minced Pork and Eggplant Recipe

This Minced Pork and Eggplant dish is a flavorful, savory stir-fry that combines tender eggplant, juicy minced pork, and a rich umami sauce. Perfectly balanced with garlic, ginger, and soy-based seasonings, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Dish:

• 2 medium eggplants (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1 tbsp salt (for prepping the eggplant)
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)
• 1/2 lb ground pork (or chicken/beef as a substitute)
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger , finely grated
• 1 red chili , thinly sliced (optional, for heat)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup water or chicken broth

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Eggplant

1. Cut the eggplants into bite-sized chunks and place them in a colander. Toss the eggplant with 1 tbsp salt to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Rinse the salt off the eggplant under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

Step 2: Cook the Eggplant

1. Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant chunks and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes , until golden brown and tender. Remove the eggplant from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Minced Pork

1. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the minced pork and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, for 4-5 minutes , until browned and cooked through.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red chili (if using). Cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked eggplant to the skillet with the pork.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and water or chicken broth. Pour the sauce mixture over the eggplant and pork.
3. Stir everything together and simmer for 3-4 minutes , until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the dish to a serving plate or bowl.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
3. Serve hot with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.

Tips for Success:

• Softening the eggplant: If you’re short on time, skip salting and steam or microwave the eggplant chunks for 3-4 minutes before stir-frying.
• Adjust the sauce: Taste the sauce before adding it to the skillet and adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your preference.
• Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the pork with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~12g

Enjoy this Minced Pork and Eggplant dish as a hearty, flavorful meal that’s packed with umami goodness. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners!