Shrimp and Eggplant Stir Fry: A Flavorful, Light Dish
Shrimp and Eggplant Stir Fry is a delicious combination of juicy shrimp and tender eggplant, cooked in a savory stir fry sauce. The dish is quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option that’s packed with flavor and healthy vegetables.
Ingredients:
200g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking shrimp and vegetables)
1 medium eggplant (cut into cubes)
1 red bell pepper (sliced)
1 small onion (sliced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for tanginess)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced eggplant and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and lightly browned. Then, add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Once the vegetables are cooked, pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and stir to coat them evenly. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Drizzle with sesame oil and give it a final stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Shrimp and Eggplant Stir Fry over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp and Eggplant Stir Fry:
Make it Spicy: If you like spice, add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stir fry sauce.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or snow peas for extra crunch and flavor.
Use Tofu: For a vegetarian option, swap out the shrimp for tofu cubes for a different texture and flavor.
Shrimp and Eggplant Stir Fry is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The juicy shrimp, tender eggplant, and rich stir fry sauce come together in this quick and easy dish that’s full of deliciousness. Serve it with rice, and you’ve got a satisfying, healthy meal in no time!