Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 6-8 Gua Bao buns
Special Equipment Needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the eggplants into 1/2 inch thick slices and brush them with sesame oil.
3. Grill the eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are tender and have grill marks.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
5. Brush the eggplant slices with the soy sauce mixture and grill for an additional minute on each side.
6. Remove the eggplant slices from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Warm the Gua Bao buns in the oven or microwave.
8. Assemble the Eggplant Gua Bao by placing a grilled eggplant slice in each bun.
9. Top the eggplant with chopped scallions, cilantro, and peanuts.
10. Serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan at medium-high heat
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 630mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Tamari or coconut aminos can be used instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Almonds or cashews can be used instead of peanuts for a nut-free option.
Variations:
- Add sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables for extra crunch.
- Use tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of eggplant for a different vegetarian option.
- Add a spicy mayo or sriracha sauce for extra heat.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to brush the eggplant slices with sesame oil before grilling to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
- Use a basting brush to evenly coat the eggplant slices with the soy sauce mixture.
- Toast the Gua Bao buns before assembling for extra flavor and texture.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover Eggplant Gua Bao can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, warm the Eggplant Gua Bao in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the Eggplant Gua Bao on a platter and garnish with additional chopped scallions, cilantro, and peanuts.
Garnishes:
Chopped scallions, cilantro, and peanuts.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of steamed rice or a vegetable stir-fry.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Steamed rice or vegetable stir-fry.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the eggplant slices are sticking to the grill, brush them with more sesame oil.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to wash the eggplants thoroughly before slicing and grilling.
Food History:
Gua Bao is a Taiwanese street food that consists of a steamed bun filled with meat or vegetables.
Flavor Profiles:
The Eggplant Gua Bao has a savory and slightly sweet flavor from the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. The chopped scallions, cilantro, and peanuts add freshness and crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Eggplant Gua Bao as a main dish or as an appetizer for a party.
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Region: Taiwanese