Braised Eggplant with Tofu

As Lunar New Year approaches, it's a time of celebration, reflection, and, of course, delicious food. Growing up in a Mauritian household, my culinary experiences were a blend of cultures, resulting in unique fusion dishes that hold a special place in my heart. This week, in honor of the Lunar New Year, I'm excited to share some of my favorite Asian-inspired fusion recipes with you. Today, let's kick things off with a mouthwatering dish featuring one of my all-time favorite ingredients: eggplant.

Recipe: Braised Eggplant with Tofu

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon pineapple vinegar (for a tropical twist)

• Vegetable oil (for pan-frying)

• 1 block extra firm tofu, shredded

• 6 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced

• 1 teaspoon of dry chilli pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 leek (or green onion), finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon pineapple vinegar (or vinegar)

• ¼ cup light soy sauce

• 4 teaspoons sugar

• Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:

   • Cut the eggplant into bite-sized pieces.

   • In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of pineapple vinegar.

   • Coat the eggplant pieces in the cornstarch mixture.

2. Pan-Fry the Eggplant:

   • Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

   • Add the coated eggplant pieces and pan-fry until golden brown and crispy. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Tofu Mixture:

   • In the same pan, add a little more vegetable oil if needed.

   • Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.

   • Add shredded tofu and cook until lightly browned.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add chili sauce, chopped leek (or green onion), pineapple vinegar, light soy sauce, and sugar to the pan with tofu. Stir well.

5. Braise Eggplant and Tofu:

   • Return the pan-fried eggplant to the pan with the tofu mixture.

   • Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

   • Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes.

6. Thicken the Sauce:

   • Prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water.

   • Pour the slurry into the pan and stir well.

   • Allow the sauce to thicken.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once the sauce has thickened and the eggplant and tofu are fully cooked, remove from heat.

   • Serve hot and garnish with additional chopped leek or green onion if desired.

This Asian-inspired Braised Eggplant with Tofu is a delightful fusion dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of Lunar New Year celebrations. While it may not be traditional, its bold flavors and creative combination are sure to impress your family and friends as you gather around the table to welcome the new year. Stay tuned for more fusion recipes throughout the week, and may your Lunar New Year be filled with joy, prosperity, and, of course, delicious food!