Stir fried japanese eggplant with ginger and miso

Stir-fried Japanese eggplant with ginger and miso combines savory miso and fresh ginger with sesame oil and chili peppers for a flavorful vegetarian dish. It's quick to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

28 Dec 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp ginger root
2 tbsp miso
6 tbsp sesame oil
1.50 tsp sake
1 tbsp spearmint
5 eggplants
2 red hot chili peppers

Stir-fried Japanese eggplant with ginger and miso is a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavor of miso with the fresh spiciness of ginger. The dish is enhanced with the fragrance of sesame oil and the heat of red chili peppers, making it a well-rounded and flavorful vegetarian option. The addition of sake offers a traditional Japanese touch, while spearmint adds a refreshing twist. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Mince the ginger root and set aside.
- Finely chop the spearmint.
- Slice the Japanese eggplants into even, bite-sized pieces.
- Finely slice the red hot chili peppers.

2. Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the miso, sake, and 2 tablespoons of the sesame oil. Mix well until the miso is completely dissolved and the mixture is well combined. Set aside.

3. Cook the Eggplants:
- Heat the remaining 4 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced ginger and sliced chili peppers to the pan and stir-fry for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Stir-Fry Eggplants:
- Add the sliced eggplants to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until the eggplants start to soften and turn golden brown.
- Pour the miso-sake mixture over the eggplants and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplants are tender and evenly coated with the sauce.

5. Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Sprinkle the finely chopped spearmint over the top and give it a quick stir to evenly distribute the herb.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the stir-fried eggplants to a serving dish.
- Serve immediately, possibly with steamed rice or as a side dish to complement your meal.

Once you've finished cooking, you'll have a delectable dish of stir-fried Japanese eggplant with ginger and miso that's both aromatic and flavorful. The combination of ingredients creates a balanced taste profile with savory, spicy, and refreshing notes. Serve this dish as a main course or a side dish, and enjoy the rich culinary experience it brings to your table!

Stir fried japanese eggplant with ginger and miso FAQ:

How long should I stir-fry the eggplants?

Stir-fry the sliced eggplants for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and turn golden brown. This ensures they are cooked through but still maintain some texture.

What can I substitute for miso in this recipe?

If you need a substitute for miso, tahini or soy sauce can be used, but they will alter the flavor profile. Adjust quantities to taste, as these substitutes may differ in saltiness and consistency.

How should I store leftovers of the stir-fried eggplants?

Store any leftover stir-fried eggplants in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture.

Can I use different types of eggplant?

Yes, you can use other types of eggplant, such as globe or Thai eggplants. Adjust the cooking time as necessary since different eggplants may have varying moisture contents.

How can I ensure the eggplants are not bitter?

To reduce bitterness, you can salt the sliced eggplants and let them sit for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. Rinse and pat dry to remove excess moisture and salt.

Tips:

- Ensure you slice the eggplants evenly to allow them to cook uniformly.

- Do not overcook the eggplants; they should be tender but retain some firmness to avoid becoming mushy.

- Use fresh ginger for a more vibrant flavor compared to powdered ginger.

- Adjust the amount of red chili peppers according to your spice tolerance.

- If your miso paste is too thick, you can dilute it with a little warm water to make it easier to mix with other ingredients.

- Garnish with fresh spearmint leaves just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 14g
Sugar 16g
Fat 15g

Stir fried japanese eggplant with ginger and miso