Crispy Eggplant Salad with Spicy Sauce

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 large eggplant (about 300 grams or 0.66 pounds)

2 medium tomatoes (about 250 grams or 0.55 pounds)

1 small bunch of cilantro

1 sprig of basil (oregano)

3 tablespoons corn starch (about 30 grams or 1 ounce)

Vegetable oil for frying

Salt and pepper to taste

Sesame seeds for garnish

We recommend:

For large eggplant:

4.8

(15) Eastern Feast - Chunky Grilled Eggplants, 2.8 kg (6.2 lbs) Vegan, Kosher, Gluten Free $24.99 View details

HUIANER Mini Artificial Eggplant, 40PCS Fake Eggplant Lifelike Vegetable Simulation Mini Vegetable Eggplant for Home Kitchen Photography Party Decoration, 3cm

(2) HUIANER Mini Artificial Eggplant, 40PCS Fake Eggplant Lifelike Vegetable Simulation Mini Vegetable Eggplant for Home Kitchen Photography Party Decoration, 3cm $9.99 View details

(6) Seeds Eggplant Long Pop - Heirloom Vegetable - GMO Free $8.96 View details

For medium tomatoes:

Cento Certified San Marzano Whole Peeled Tomatoes, 28 Oz (Pack of 6), Canned Plum Tomatoes in Thick Puree with Basil, Grown and Processed in Italy

4.7

(1,428) Cento Certified San Marzano Whole Peeled Tomatoes, 28 Oz (Pack of 6), Canned Plum Tomatoes in Thick Puree with Basil, Grown and Processed in Italy $26.22 View details

4.7

(9,009) Amazon Fresh, Tomato Paste, 6 oz (Previously Happy Belly, Packaging May Vary) $0.78 View details

4.4

(341) Contadina San Marzano Style Whole Tomatoes, 28 oz (Pack of 6 Cans) $19.62 View details

For cilantro:

Dependable Food Cilantro Flakes - 1.5 lb. Resealable Bulk Jug, Natural 100% Dried Cilantro Seasoning, Additive-Free, Non-GMO, Salt-Free, Allergen-Free, Kosher Herb for Cooking and Garnishing

4.7

(188) Dependable Food Cilantro Flakes - 1.5 lb. Resealable Bulk Jug, Natural 100% Dried Cilantro Seasoning, Additive-Free, Non-GMO, Salt-Free, Allergen-Free, Kosher Herb for Cooking and Garnishing $25.99 View details

Frontier Co-op Organic Cilantro Leaf, Cut and Sifted, 1lb Bulk Bag - Dried Cilantro Seasoning - Perfect for Tea, Soups, Sauces, Salsa and More - Kosher USDA Organic

4.7

(262) Frontier Co-op Organic Cilantro Leaf, Cut and Sifted, 1lb Bulk Bag - Dried Cilantro Seasoning - Perfect for Tea, Soups, Sauces, Salsa and More - Kosher USDA Organic $24.85 $26.29 View details

4.6

(1,287) Watkins Gourmet Organic Spice Jar, Cilantro Leaves, 0.63 Ounce Jar, 3-Pack USDA Organic $23.09 View details

For basil herb:

Gaia Herbs Holy Basil Leaf - Helps Sustain a Positive Outlook and Balance in Times of Stress - an Adaptogenic Ayurvedic Herb - 120 Vegan Liquid Phyto-Capsules (60-Day Supply)

4.7

(806) Gaia Herbs Holy Basil Leaf - Helps Sustain a Positive Outlook and Balance in Times of Stress - an Adaptogenic Ayurvedic Herb - 120 Vegan Liquid Phyto-Capsules (60-Day Supply) $53.09 View details

4.7

(7,427) Spice Hunter California Basil, Leaves, 0.3 Ounce (Pack of 6) $21.58 View details

Dried Basil Leaves 40 Servings (100g/ 3.5oz) Non GMO, Gluten Free, 100% Raw Whole Tulsi Leaf, Sourced from India, Premium Quality, Packed in Resealable Ziplock Pouch

4.6

(13,782) Dried Basil Leaves 40 Servings (100g/ 3.5oz) Non GMO, Gluten Free, 100% Raw Whole Tulsi Leaf, Sourced from India, Premium Quality, Packed in Resealable Ziplock Pouch $9.99 View details

For corn starch:

Prime

4.8

(7) Corn Starch By Unpretentious Baker, Resealable 5-Gallon Bucket, Thickening Agent, For Bulk Baking & Cleaning Use (400 Ounces) $109.99 View details Prime

(12) Earthborn Elements Corn Starch 2 Gallon Bucket, Thickening Agent, Cooking & Baking Staple, Cleaning $43.99 View details Prime

4.8

(2,949) Clabber Girl, Corn Starch, 3.5lb $19.90 View details

For vegetable oil for frying:

Prime best seller

4.7

(9,237) Amazon Fresh, Peanut Oil, 128 Fl Oz (Previously Happy Belly, Packaging May Vary) $17.33 View details Prime

4.8

(10,485) BetterBody Foods Refined Non-GMO Cooking Oil, Kosher, Keto and Paleo Diet Friendly, for High-Heat Cooking, Avocado Oil, 1 Liter, 33.8 Fl Oz $15.18 View details Prime

BetterBody Foods Refined Avocado Oil, Non-GMO Cooking Oil, Kosher, Keto and Paleo Diet Friendly, for High-Heat Cooking, Frying, Baking, Avocado Oil, 500 mL, 16.9 Fl Oz

4.8

(24,902) BetterBody Foods Refined Avocado Oil, Non-GMO Cooking Oil, Kosher, Keto and Paleo Diet Friendly, for High-Heat Cooking, Frying, Baking, Avocado Oil, 500 mL, 16.9 Fl Oz $8.24 View details

For sesame seeds:

Prime best seller

4.7

(10,713) Amazon Brand - Happy Belly Sesame Seed, 20 ounce (Pack of 1) $8.99 $10.50 View details Prime

4.7

(57) Badia Sesame Seed Hulled, 16 Ounce (Pack of 6) $35.95 View details Prime

McCormick Culinary Whole Sesame Seed, 16 oz - One 16 Ounce Container of Hulled Whole White Sesame Seeds Perfect for Noodle Dishes, Sushi, Stir-Fries and Coating for Meat and Fish

4.8

(5,489) McCormick Culinary Whole Sesame Seed, 16 oz - One 16 Ounce Container of Hulled Whole White Sesame Seeds Perfect for Noodle Dishes, Sushi, Stir-Fries and Coating for Meat and Fish $9.64 View details

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons chili sauce (about 30 grams or 1 ounce)

1 tablespoon narsharab sauce (about 15 grams or 0.5 ounces)

1 tablespoon soy sauce (about 15 grams or 0.5 ounces)

We recommend:

For chili sauce:

4.8

(15,837) TABASCO Brand Sweet Chili Sauce, Mild Hot Sauce, Easy-to-Squeeze Bottle, Perfect Balance of Sweet & Heat, Versatile Flavor, Great on Fish Tacos, Salads, Asian Food & More, 11 Oz (Pack of 1) $4.29 View details

G Hughes Sugar Free, Sweet Chili Sauce - Gluten Free Dipping Sauces, Sugar Free Sauce, Hot Sauce, Low Carb Red Chili Sauce, Spicy Chili Sauce - 18 oz (4 Pack)

4.5

(4,419) G Hughes Sugar Free, Sweet Chili Sauce - Gluten Free Dipping Sauces, Sugar Free Sauce, Hot Sauce, Low Carb Red Chili Sauce, Spicy Chili Sauce - 18 oz (4 Pack) $29.99 View details

4.7

(12,323) Huy Fong Chili Garlic Sauce, 8 oz $2.49 View details

For narsharab sauce:

Prime best seller

Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce 2 Pack - 1 Original, 1 Yuzu - BBQ Sauce for Wings, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Seafood, Noodles, and More. Non GMO, No Preservatives, Vegan, BPA free

4.6

(14,345) Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce 2 Pack - 1 Original, 1 Yuzu - BBQ Sauce for Wings, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Seafood, Noodles, and More. Non GMO, No Preservatives, Vegan, BPA free $23.98 View details Prime

4.3

(213) Chef Blackanese Sauces from Dragon Inn Restaurant - Original Dragon Inn Restaurant flavors and variety packs (Variety Favors, 3 Pack) $24.29 $22.99 View details Prime

(11) Tokyo Express Gourmet Sauces 3 Pack (White, Hibachi and Ginger sauce) 12 oz each $39.99 View details

For soy sauce:

Prime

4.8

(8,091) Kikkoman Lite Soy Sauce, 64-Ounce Bottle $19.74 View details Prime

4.7

(3,222) San-J - Gluten Free Tamari Soy Sauce - Specially Brewed - Made with 100% Soy - 64 oz. Container $29.99 View details

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Eggplant

Start by slicing the **eggplant** into thin rounds. This helps in cooking them evenly and ensuring a crispy texture. Sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Afterward, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove the salt and moisture.

Step 2

Fry the Eggplant

In a sauté pan, heat enough **vegetable oil** to fully cover the eggplant slices. Once the oil is hot, coat the dried eggplant slices with **corn starch** before gently placing them in the hot oil.

Fry until they are golden brown, taking care to not overcrowd the pan. Remove and drain on paper towels, and then lightly season with salt and pepper.

Step 3

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the **chili sauce**, **narsharab sauce**, and **soy sauce**. Stir well until all ingredients are blended smoothly. This combination will add a tangy and spicy flavor to your salad.

Step 4

Assemble the Salad

On a serving plate, layer the **crispy eggplant slices** with diced **tomatoes**. Drizzle the **dressing** over the top and garnish with **chopped cilantro** and **basil**. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal.

Serve immediately while enjoying the contrasting textures and flavors!

Servings

Once you have made this delicious **Crispy Eggplant Salad**, there are multiple ways to enjoy it! Picture this: **a vibrant picnic feast** where you serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish. The crispy eggplants will be the centerpiece of your table, and guests will dive right in! 🌟

If you want to elevate your dining experience, try pairing this salad with a **light white wine or a refreshing iced tea**. The flavors blend beautifully, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your meal. 🍹✨

For a more casual occasion, serve the salad as a delightful **appetizer** on a warm day, accompanied by pita chips or crusty bread for dipping. Your friends will be clamoring for more! 🥙❤️

Equipment

Knife

A good quality knife will make slicing the eggplant and tomatoes a breeze. Ensure it's sharp to avoid any uneven cuts.

We recommend:

Prime

(4) WÜSTHOF Gourmet 3-Pc Paring Knife Set $55.23 $105.00 View details Prime

Pro Dough Pastry Scraper/Cutter/Chopper Stainless Steel Mirror Polished with Measuring Scale Multipurpose- Cake, Pizza Cutter - Pastry Bread Separator Scale Knife (1)

4.8

(34,737) Pro Dough Pastry Scraper/Cutter/Chopper Stainless Steel Mirror Polished with Measuring Scale Multipurpose- Cake, Pizza Cutter - Pastry Bread Separator Scale Knife (1) $6.69 $9.99 View details

Cutting Board

Use a sturdy cutting board to provide a stable surface when prepping your ingredients.

We recommend:

Prime

SMIRLY Wooden Cutting Boards For Kitchen - Bamboo Cutting Board Set with Holder, Wood Cutting Board Set, Cutting Board Wood, Wooden Chopping Board, Wooden Cutting Board Set

4.6

(14,913) SMIRLY Wooden Cutting Boards For Kitchen - Bamboo Cutting Board Set with Holder, Wood Cutting Board Set, Cutting Board Wood, Wooden Chopping Board, Wooden Cutting Board Set $39.99 $42.99 View details Prime best seller

ROYAL CRAFT WOOD Cutting Boards for Kitchen - Bamboo Cutting Board Set of 3, Cutting Boards with Juice Grooves, Serving Board Set, Thick Chopping Board for Meat, Veggies, Easy Grip Handle

4.6

(51,124) ROYAL CRAFT WOOD Cutting Boards for Kitchen - Bamboo Cutting Board Set of 3, Cutting Boards with Juice Grooves, Serving Board Set, Thick Chopping Board for Meat, Veggies, Easy Grip Handle $29.97 $45.97 View details Prime

The Original Gorilla Grip Oversized 100% BPA Free Reversible Durable Kitchen Cutting Board Set of 3, Juice Grooves, Dishwasher Safe, Easy Grip Handle Border, Food Chopping Boards, Cooking, Black

4.6

(53,976) The Original Gorilla Grip Oversized 100% BPA Free Reversible Durable Kitchen Cutting Board Set of 3, Juice Grooves, Dishwasher Safe, Easy Grip Handle Border, Food Chopping Boards, Cooking, Black $21.99 View details

Large Mixing Bowl

This is essential for mixing your salads and ensuring the dressing is evenly distributed.

We recommend:

Prime best seller

4.8

(29,369) Pyrex Glass, 3-Piece, 3 PC Mixing Bowl Set $17.53 View details Prime

4.7

(35,186) FineDine Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set for Kitchen, Dishwasher Safe Nesting Bowls for Cooking, Baking, Meal Prepping $21.25 $58.99 View details

4.7

(12,658) Anchor Hocking Batter Bowl, 2 Quart Glass Mixing Bowl with Red Lid $19.95 $26.99 View details

Frying Pan

Your frying pan should have a non-stick surface for easy frying and cleanup. A well-heated pan will give you that crispy texture.

We recommend:

Prime

4.5

(10,097) HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 7-Inch Fry Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher and Oven Safe, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops $109.00 View details Prime

SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Saute Pan 10-Inch, Non-toxic Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, Healthy Jumbo Cooker, Stay Cool Handle, Induction Compatible, PFOA & PFAS Free

4.7

(8,221) SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Saute Pan 10-Inch, Non-toxic Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, Healthy Jumbo Cooker, Stay Cool Handle, Induction Compatible, PFOA & PFAS Free $43.99 View details Prime best seller

Tramontina Professional Series 8-Inch Fry Pan, Heavy-Gauge Aluminum with Reinforced Nonstick Coating, Oven and Dishwasher Safe, NSF Certified, Made in Brazil

4.6

(22,672) Tramontina Professional Series 8-Inch Fry Pan, Heavy-Gauge Aluminum with Reinforced Nonstick Coating, Oven and Dishwasher Safe, NSF Certified, Made in Brazil $26.06 $35.00 View details

Measuring Spoons

Precision in measuring your ingredients, especially the sauces, is key for the perfect flavor balance.

We recommend:

Prime

Measuring Spoons: U-Taste 18/8 Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons Set of 9 Piece: 1/16 TSP, 1/8 TSP, 1/4 TSP, 1/3 TSP, 1/2 TSP, 3/4 TSP, 1 TSP, 1/2 tbsp & 1 tbsp Dry and Liquid Ingredients

4.8

(19,298) Measuring Spoons: U-Taste 18/8 Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons Set of 9 Piece: 1/16 TSP, 1/8 TSP, 1/4 TSP, 1/3 TSP, 1/2 TSP, 3/4 TSP, 1 TSP, 1/2 tbsp & 1 tbsp Dry and Liquid Ingredients $17.99 $25.70 View details Prime

22-Piece Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Spoons Set, Tad Dash Pinch Smidgen Drop Mini Measuring Spoons, Measuring Stick Leveler, Measurement Conversion Chart Fridge Magnet, (Country Chic)

4.8

(2,960) 22-Piece Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Spoons Set, Tad Dash Pinch Smidgen Drop Mini Measuring Spoons, Measuring Stick Leveler, Measurement Conversion Chart Fridge Magnet, (Country Chic) $36.90 $39.90 View details

Variations

If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dish without worry. 🌾🚫

For a **vegan version**, rest assured that this salad is naturally plant-based! You can also make it creamier by adding in some avocado slices or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Enjoy without compromising on taste! 🥑✨

Faq

Can I use other vegetables besides eggplant?
Absolutely! Zucchini or bell peppers can be great substitutes if you want to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Do I need to salt the eggplant before frying?
Salting the eggplant beforehand can help draw out moisture, which can reduce bitterness and enhance the crispiness.
How can I store leftover salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the eggplant may lose its crunch over time.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While you can prepare the ingredients in advance, it's best to dress the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispiness.
What’s the best way to reheat the eggplant?
If you have any leftover eggplant, reheat it in a frying pan to regain some of its original crispy texture.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes! The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using.