Thai Basil Eggplant Stir-Fry Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large eggplant, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the eggplant and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until it starts to soften and turn golden brown.
4. Add the red and green bell peppers and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.
6. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until everything is coated and heated through.
7. Add the Thai basil leaves and stir-fry for another 30 seconds until the leaves are wilted.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot over rice.

20-25 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving size: 4

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 12g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Eggplant can be substituted with zucchini or mushrooms.
- Thai basil can be substituted with regular basil or mint.

Variations:
- Add sliced chicken, beef, or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add sliced carrots or broccoli for extra vegetables.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to dice the eggplant into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
- Use a non-stick wok or skillet to prevent sticking.
- Don't overcook the vegetables to maintain their texture and flavor.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a bowl over rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.

Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or sliced green onions.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the eggplant is too bitter, soak it in salted water for 30 minutes before cooking.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the vegetables to a safe temperature of 165°F.

Food history:
- Thai basil is a popular herb used in Southeast Asian cuisine for its unique flavor and aroma.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot over rice for a complete meal.

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Region: Thai

Taste: Spicy, Savory, Tangy, Aromatic, Herbal