Get ready to transform the humble eggplant into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for the recipe! This Asian-inspired Grilled Eggplant with Sesame Marinade is not just a side dish – it's a culinary adventure that combines the smoky char of perfectly grilled vegetables with a tantalizing blend of sesame, garlic, and umami flavors that will transport your palate to new heights of deliciousness.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Wash the eggplants thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off the stem ends and slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick planks, ensuring even thickness for consistent grilling.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and half of the sesame seeds to create the marinade. Mix well until all ingredients are completely incorporated.
- Place the eggplant slices in a large shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Gently turn the slices to ensure they are evenly coated, allowing the eggplant to absorb the flavors for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure beautiful grill marks.
- Remove the eggplant slices from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting during cooking.
- Arrange the eggplant slices on the hot grill, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side. Brush with reserved marinade occasionally to enhance flavor and prevent drying.
- Look for golden-brown grill marks and a tender texture. The eggplant should be soft when pierced with a fork but not mushy.
- Transfer grilled eggplant to a serving platter and sprinkle the remaining sesame seeds over the top for added texture and visual appeal.
- Let the eggplant rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Choose the Right Eggplant: Look for firm, glossy eggplants with smooth, unblemished skin. Medium-sized eggplants work best for even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. Letting the eggplant sit in the marinade for 10-15 minutes allows it to soak up those incredible sesame and garlic flavors.
- Grill Temperature is Key: Maintain a medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful grill marks without burning the eggplant. If the heat is too low, you'll end up with soggy eggplant; too high, and you'll char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
- Basting Technique: Use the reserved marinade to baste the eggplant while grilling. This adds extra flavor and helps keep the slices moist and delicious.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra flavor boost, consider garnishing with fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or green onions, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
