Ingredients

5 Chinese eggplants , quartered lengthwise , cut into 3-inch pieces
3 cups canola oil
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 tablespoons chinese chili bean paste
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 bay leaf
1 oil-packed anchovy fillet , finely chopped
1 sachet spices
2 cups chicken stock
1 1/2 teaspoons szechuan peppercorns , crushed
1 1/2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
1 teaspoon fennel seed
2 chiles de arbol , stemmed
2 tablespoons Chinese wine
12 teaspoons fish sauce
3 garlic cloves , mashed
1 tablespoon finely chopped dill
1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
1/4 cup hot sesame chili oil
Originating from China, Red-Cooked Eggplant (Hongshao Qiezi) is a popular eggplant dish that is made by braising the vegetable in a sweet and spicy sauce. The dish is often served during Lunar New Year celebrations as the ingredients used in the dish are considered to be symbolic for good luck and fortune. In Chinese cuisine, eggplant is a popular ingredient due to its nutritional value and unique flavor. The dish is best served hot and often accompanied by noodles or rice.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 400°F.
2.Spread eggplants on a baking sheet and brush with canola oil.
3.Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
4.In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, Chinese chili bean paste, tomato paste, bay leaf, anchovy fillet, sachet spices, chicken stock, szechuan peppercorns, dark soy sauce, fennel seed, chiles de arbol, Chinese wine, fish sauce, and garlic.
5.Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6.Add the eggplants and let them simmer for 20-30 minutes until they are tender.
7.Remove from heat and sprinkle with dill and chives, and drizzle with hot sesame chili oil before serving.

PROS

Red-Cooked Eggplant (Hongshao Qiezi) is a delicious and unique Chinese dish that is easy to prepare and has a flavorful taste.

It is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, as eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber and nutrients.

CONS

The dish is quite oily due to the amount of canola oil used in the recipe and might not be suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
It is also quite spicy, which might not be suitable for those who cannot tolerate hot peppers.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber and nutrients, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Eggplants are also rich in antioxidants, which have been shown to help prevent many chronic diseases, including cancer and heart disease. The spice used in the recipe, particularly the Szechuan peppercorns, has been linked to promoting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation.

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