Are you ready to spice up your dinner with a delicious and easy-to-make dish? Our Spicy Roasted Eggplant Recipe is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. This recipe draws inspiration from Mediterranean and Chinese cuisines, combining robust flavors with a touch of heat. Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable that soaks up spices and seasonings beautifully, making it an excellent choice for a flavorful roast. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and rewarding.
Ingredients
For this Easy Spicy Roasted Eggplant Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggplant
Wash and dry the eggplants. Cut them into 1-inch cubes, ensuring uniform size for even roasting.
Step 3: Season the Eggplant
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. If you prefer a slightly sweet and spicy flavor, add the honey or maple syrup. Mix well to create a spicy marinade.
Step 4: Marinate the Eggplant
Add the cubed eggplant to the bowl and toss until all pieces are evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Roast the Eggplant
Spread the marinated eggplant cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and slightly crispy around the edges. Stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the eggplant is done roasting, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course over rice or noodles.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Uniform Sizing: Ensure the eggplant cubes are of uniform size to guarantee even cooking.
- Salting Eggplant: For a less bitter taste, you can sprinkle the eggplant cubes with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes before marinating. Rinse and pat dry before adding the marinade.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more chili powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Variations
- Chinese Style: Add 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce and a teaspoon of rice vinegar to the marinade for a more authentic Chinese flavor.
- Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of dried oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice to the marinade for a Mediterranean touch.
- Additional Vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional information for one serving of this Spicy Roasted Eggplant Recipe (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Sugar: 5g
Our Spicy Roasted Eggplant Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect dish for those who love a bit of heat and are looking for a healthy, flavorful meal. Whether you serve it as a side or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations to find your favorite version. We invite you to try this recipe, share your experience in the comments below, and spread the joy by sharing it on social media.