Spicy Thai Basil Eggplant: A Vegetarian’s Delight Ana De Armas, July 1, 2022December 20, 2023 Spicy Thai Basil Eggplant: A Vegetarian’s Delight that is sure to satisfy your cravings for bold and exotic flavors. This scrumptious dish features tender eggplant cooked in a spicy, fragrant sauce, accented with the unmistakable aroma of Thai basil. Bursting with flavor and boasting a delightful texture, this vegetarian dish is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the delicious world of Thai cuisine. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your wok, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your senses and leave you craving more. Ingredients 1 large eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, can be replaced with additional soy sauce for a vegan option) 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper 1/4 cup water 1-2 Thai red chilies, thinly sliced (adjust according to heat preference) 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed Cooking Steps Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and slightly browned. Remove the cooked eggplant from the wok and set aside. In the same wok, add the minced garlic, sliced red onion, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion and pepper begin to soften. Return the cooked eggplant to the wok, and add the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the eggplant is evenly coated with the sauce. Add the water to the wok and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Stir in the sliced Thai red chilies and fresh Thai basil leaves, cooking for 1-2 minutes more, or until the basil has wilted and released its aroma. Remove the wok from heat, and serve your Spicy Thai Basil Eggplant with a side of steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy! In conclusion, Spicy Thai Basil Eggplant is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that showcases the vibrant tastes of Thai cuisine. When preparing this dish, the key to achieving an authentic taste lies in the selection of fresh ingredients, particularly the Thai basil and chilies. Be sure to choose fresh Thai basil, as this imparts the most flavor and aroma to the dish. Additionally, using fresh Thai red chilies will provide the perfect balance of heat and flavor. So, go ahead and treat yourself to this delectable dish, and savor the rich and bold flavors of Thailand. Recipe