Introduction
Sticky Aubergine and Peanut Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the rich, umami flavors of roasted aubergine with the crunch of peanuts and a refreshing salad base. This recipe perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Ideal for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Aubergine – 2 medium-sized
Peanut butter – 3 tablespoons
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
Honey or maple syrup – 1 tablespoon
Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1-inch piece, grated
Red chili – 1, finely chopped (optional)
Cucumber – 1, sliced
Bell pepper – 1, sliced
Spring onions – 3, chopped
Peanuts – 50 grams, roughly chopped
Fresh coriander – a handful, chopped
Prep Time
The preparation time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to quickly assemble the ingredients and get ready to cook.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This Sticky Aubergine and Peanut Salad is not only flavorful but also a visually appealing dish that will impress your guests or family. Enjoy the harmonious blend of ingredients and textures in this simple yet delicious recipe.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aubergine
Cut the aubergine (eggplant) into bite-sized chunks. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook the Aubergine
Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the aubergine and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and tender.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup. Stir well until combined; this will create a sticky sauce.
Step 4: Add Sauce to Aubergine
Once the aubergine is cooked, pour the sauce over the aubergine in the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat the aubergine evenly.
Step 5: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine mixed salad leaves, chopped cucumber, and any preferred herbs like mint or coriander.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Add the sticky aubergine to the salad base and toss gently to combine.
Step 7: Top with Peanuts
Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Plate the salad and serve immediately while the aubergine is warm.
Notes
Note 1: Aubergine Preparation
Salting the aubergine helps to remove bitterness and enhances the overall flavor.
Note 2: Sauce Variation
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce based on your preference by adding more or less maple syrup.
Note 3: Storage
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The aubergine may become softer over time.
Note 4: Vegan Option
All ingredients used in this recipe are vegan, making it suitable for plant-based diets.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting the aubergine enhances its natural sweetness and creates a tender texture. Ensure the oven is preheated for even cooking.
Stir-frying
Stir-frying allows for quick cooking while retaining the crispness of vegetables. Use high heat and a small amount of oil for best results.
Chopping
Properly chopping vegetables into uniform sizes ensures even cooking and a pleasing presentation. Aim for bite-sized pieces when preparing the salad.
Mixing
Mixing the dressing and salad ingredients thoroughly allows the flavors to meld together. Use a large bowl to combine everything effectively.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh herbs or nuts adds texture and visual appeal to the salad. Choose vibrant ingredients to enhance the dish’s look.
FAQ
Can I substitute the aubergine with another vegetable?
Yes, feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers if you prefer.
What type of peanuts should I use?
Roasted unsalted peanuts are ideal as they add crunch without overwhelming the flavors.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared in advance but is best enjoyed fresh to retain crispness.
How can I add protein to this salad?
Consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, it is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans.
Conclusion
The sticky aubergine and peanut salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that beautifully balances sweet, savory, and nutty elements. It serves as a delightful side or a light main course, making it perfect for any occasion. The recipe not only highlights the wonderful texture of aubergine but also demonstrates how versatile and satisfying plant-based meals can be. Enjoy crafting this salad and savoring its unique flavor profile.
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