Eggplant dish with garlic

Eggplant with Garlic – A Simple and Hearty Delight

Who doesn’t love the aroma of fried eggplant, combined with the unmistakable taste of garlic? This eggplant with garlic recipe is not only a delicious dish but also an excellent choice for fasting days or for a light and healthy lunch. Prepared with simple ingredients, this recipe can bring a touch of tradition and culinary comfort to your table.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 large eggplants (choose firm eggplants without spots or soft areas)
- 5 cloves of garlic (preferably fresh for an intense flavor)
- 1-2 teaspoons of vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil will give a special taste)
- Water (approximately 200 ml, but you can adjust according to preferences)

Preparing the eggplant with garlic:

1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by washing the eggplants under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities, as eggplants absorb oil quickly and can have an unpleasant taste if not clean. After washing, dry them well with a paper towel or napkin. Cut the eggplants into slices about 1-2 cm thick. This step is essential, as slices that are too thin may fall apart during frying.

2. Frying the eggplant: Heat the oil in a deep frying pan or pot. Check if the oil is hot enough by adding a slice of eggplant; if it sizzles, it’s time to add the remaining slices. Fry the eggplants in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, approximately 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a golden color and a crispy texture, but don’t leave them too long, as they can burn and become bitter.

3. Preparing the garlic sauce: While the eggplants are frying, take the garlic cloves and peel them. Use a garlic press or, if you don’t have one, you can chop the cloves finely with a knife. Mix the crushed garlic with 200 ml of water and add vegeta or salt. This mixture will give the eggplant a savory flavor and add moisture.

4. Assembling the dish: After the eggplants are fried, remove them from the pan and place them in a pot. Pour the garlic and water mixture over the eggplants. Bring everything to a simmer over low heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This time will allow the eggplant to absorb the flavors of the garlic. Stir occasionally to ensure all slices are well coated.

5. Serving: The eggplant with garlic can be served warm, plain, or alongside a side of potatoes or rice. A slice of toasted bread with olive oil and garlic would go wonderfully with this dish. If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top.

Useful tips:
- If you want to reduce the oil content of the eggplant, you can let them drain with salt for 30 minutes before frying. This will help remove moisture from the eggplant and make them absorb less oil.
- You can also add some slices of tomatoes or bell peppers to add a splash of color and diversify the flavor.
- This recipe is very versatile; you can experiment with different spices, such as pepper or sweet paprika, to give it a personal twist.

Nutritional benefits:
Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, with a low calorie content. Garlic, on the other hand, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a valuable ingredient for health. This dish will not only satisfy your taste buds but will also provide important nutritional intake.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen eggplants? It is recommended to use fresh eggplants for optimal taste. Frozen eggplants may have a different texture after cooking.
2. How can I tell if the eggplants are good? Choose eggplants that are firm, without spots or soft areas. The color should be uniform, and the stem should be green and fresh.
3. Can this recipe be adapted for vegans? Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, so it’s perfect for anyone looking to avoid animal products.

In conclusion, eggplant with garlic is a simple and delicious dish that will entice you with savory flavors and bring a touch of joy to every meal. Don’t hesitate to try it and personalize it according to your preferences! It can quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your meal!