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Grilled Eggplant

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Grilled Eggplant is a smoky, savory dish made with tender eggplant marinated in garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of red pepper flakes. Finished with fresh mint, it’s a perfect side dish, appetizer, or topping for bowls and salads.

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)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds or lengthwise strips. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

  • Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of pepper.

  • Marinate the Eggplant: Brush the eggplant slices with the marinade on both sides and let sit for 10–15 minutes.

  • Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (or use a grill pan over medium-high heat).

  • Grill the Eggplant: Place marinated eggplant slices on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until tender and charred.

  • Finish the Dish: Remove from heat and place on a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh mint and add salt and pepper to taste.

  • Serve: Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or part of a larger meal.

Notes

Add a Topping: Drizzle tahini or a yogurt-based sauce for added richness.

Grilled Vegetables: Grill other veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a varied dish.

Herb Substitutes: Basil, parsley, or cilantro can replace mint for different herbal flavors.

More Heat: Add more red pepper flakes or fresh chili slices to the marinade for extra spice.