Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Eggplant recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the eggplant while the marinade gives it a savory, umami-rich flavor with a little kick of spice. The smoky char from the grill adds depth, and the sesame oil and soy sauce bring richness to every bite. The fresh mint adds a refreshing contrast that complements the smoky and savory elements, making this dish well-balanced and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds or lengthwise strips, depending on your preference. Sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This helps prevent them from becoming soggy while grilling.
2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of pepper.
3. Marinate the Eggplant: Brush the eggplant slices with the marinade on both sides. Let the eggplant sit for about 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
5. Grill the Eggplant: Place the marinated eggplant slices on the grill and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
6. Finish the Dish: Once the eggplant is grilled, remove it from the heat and place it on a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped mint and add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Serve the grilled eggplant warm as a side dish, appetizer, or as part of a larger meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add a Topping: For a richer dish, drizzle the grilled eggplant with tahini or a yogurt-based sauce.
• Grilled Vegetables: You can grill other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms alongside the eggplant for a more varied dish.
• Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh mint, you can use basil, parsley, or cilantro for a different herbal note.
• More Heat: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili slices to the marinade for extra spice.

Storage/Reheating

Grilled eggplant is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the eggplant on a baking sheet and heat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reheating on the grill for a few minutes is also an option to retain the grilled flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan works great for this recipe! Just make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat, and follow the same grilling time.

What’s the best way to slice the eggplant?

Slicing the eggplant into 1-inch thick rounds or strips will give you a good balance of tenderness and grill marks. You can also cut it lengthwise if you prefer larger pieces.

Can I marinate the eggplant overnight?

Yes, you can marinate the eggplant for a longer period to intensify the flavors. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

Can I use other types of eggplant?

This recipe works best with large, firm eggplants, but you can use smaller or thinner varieties if desired. Just adjust the grilling time as needed.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, a sprinkle of crumbled feta, goat cheese, or a few shavings of parmesan would add a nice creamy and salty contrast to the grilled eggplant.

How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, but if you want to make it richer, try adding a drizzle of tahini sauce or a vegan yogurt topping.

Can I grill the eggplant in advance?

Yes, you can grill the eggplant ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or include fresh chopped chili peppers.

What should I serve this with?

Grilled eggplant pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, rice dishes, or salads. You can also serve it as part of a mezze platter or vegetarian spread.

Conclusion

Grilled Eggplant is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the eggplant’s natural sweetness and smoky char. With a savory marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic, and finished off with fresh mint and a bit of heat, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, appetizer, or a light main, Grilled Eggplant is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that will enhance any meal.

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