Eggplant veggie stir-fry

This eggplant veggie stir-fry combines vibrant vegetables, zesty orange flavors, and a hint of spice for a quick and nutritious meal. Featuring a delightful mix of textures from cashews and sesame seeds, it's an easy weeknight dish.

04 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3 cups white rice
3 tsp orange zest
1/4 cup orange juice
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1/4 tsp red pepper (spice)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp olive oil
2 carrots
2 red peppers
1 eggplant
2 garlic cloves
1.50 tsp ginger
3/4 cup cashew
1 cup onion
1 dash salt
1.50 tbsp sesame seeds
Eggplant veggie stir-fry

Eggplant veggie stir-fry is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, zesty orange, and savory soy sauce with a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious. With a medley of colorful vegetables and a delightful mixture of textures from cashews and sesame seeds, this stir-fry is sure to become a favorite.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the 3 cups of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium pot, add the rice and 6 cups of water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine 3 tsp orange zest, 1/4 cup orange juice, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- In another small bowl, mix 2 tsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the sliced carrots and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the sliced red bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Cook the Eggplant:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil.
- Add the cubed eggplant and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is softened and slightly browned.
5. Add Aromatics and Cashews:
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the eggplant. Stir well and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the 3/4 cup cashews and a dash of salt. Stir to combine.
6. Combine and Simmer:
- Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the eggplant mixture.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables.
- Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
- Stir the cornstarch slurry well and add it to the skillet.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.
8. Serve:
- Divide the cooked rice among the plates.
- Top with the eggplant veggie stir-fry mixture.
- Sprinkle each serving with the sesame seeds.

This Eggplant veggie stir-fry is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and wholesome meal. By following the steps outlined and the tips provided, you'll have a delicious dish that's not only packed with nutrients but also bursting with taste. Serve it over a bed of white rice and enjoy a delightful, home-cooked meal with your family or friends.

Eggplant veggie stir-fry FAQ:

What type of rice can I use for this stir-fry?

While the recipe calls for white rice, you can substitute it with brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice used; brown rice generally takes longer.

How do I know when the eggplant is cooked properly?

The eggplant is properly cooked when it becomes soft and slightly browned, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes of cooking in the skillet. It should be tender but not mushy.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, to make the stir-fry gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce, such as tamari, instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through before serving.

What can I substitute for cashews?

If you'd like to replace cashews, you can use other nuts like peanuts or almonds, or seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

Tips:

- Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

- To avoid sogginess, cook the vegetables on high heat and keep them slightly crunchy.

- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.

- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water.

- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan before adding them to the stir-fry for an enhanced nutty flavor.

- For a more protein-rich meal, you can add tofu or your choice of meat.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 520kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 100g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 11g
Fat 20g

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