Craving a vibrant and flavorful Thai dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for Stir-fried Sweet Eggplant with Minced Pork and Basil. The sweet, tender eggplant perfectly complements the savory minced pork, all infused with the aromatic punch of fresh Thai basil and a hint of chili for a delightful kick. This recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated by authentic Thai cooking techniques. It's a fantastic weeknight meal, ready in under 30 minutes, and guaranteed to impress.
This dish showcases the beautiful balance of sweet and savory, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. The eggplant's soft texture contrasts beautifully with the crunchy basil and the satisfyingly meaty pork. Ready to create this delicious Thai masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Mortar and pestle
Ingredients
- Sweet eggplant
- Red chili peppers
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves
- Basil leaves
- Minced pork: 250 grams
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sugar
- Oyster sauce
- Soy sauce
- MSG
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Eggplant and Aromatics
- Cut the sweet eggplant into bite-sized pieces. Avoid cutting them too large for easier cooking.
- Soak the cut eggplant in salted water to evenly distribute the salt and prevent bitterness.
- 6-7 pieces; garlic: 4-5 cloves).
Step 2. Cook the Pork and Sauce
- Stir-fry the pounded chili and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the minced pork and stir-fry until cooked through.
- Add MSG, sugar, and soy sauce to the minced pork.
Step 3. Stir-fry the Eggplant
- Add the soaked and drained eggplant to the pan. Add water if needed to prevent dryness.
- Continue stir-frying until the eggplant is cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add basil leaves and stir-fry until wilted.
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Sweet eggplant has a similar taste to long eggplant but retains a satisfying crispness.
- Sweet eggplant can also be coated in flour and deep-fried, or used in curries.
- The aroma of basil leaves greatly enhances the dish's appeal.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 450-550
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork with another protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or even tofu would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the protein you choose.
2. What if I don't have Thai basil?
Regular basil or even a mix of Italian herbs can be used as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different. Thai basil has a unique licorice-like note.
This Stir-fried Sweet Eggplant with Minced Pork and Basil recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Thai cuisine. Enjoy this flavorful dish as a satisfying weeknight meal or a delightful addition to your next dinner party. We hope you savor every bite!