How to Cook Eggplant With Egg?

Are you looking to elevate your cooking skills and impress your taste buds?

Check out this article by Chris Poormet, the culinary genius behind “Poormet.com”. In this post, Chris delves into the delicious world of eggplant and eggs, showing you how to create a mouth-watering dish that will leave you craving for more.

From the ingredients and tools needed to the step-by-step instructions on preparation and cooking, Chris has got you covered.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with his exquisite recipe!

About Chris Poormet

Credits: Poormet.Com – Nicholas Gonzalez

Chris Poormet, the renowned owner of Poormet.com, acclaimed as the Culinary Blogger of the Year, is a former chef with expertise in food photography, boasting a devoted following.

Chris’s journey in the culinary world began in his early teens, where he would experiment with flavors and techniques in his home kitchen, sparking a lifelong passion for food. After honing his skills in top-rated restaurants, Chris decided to share his love for cooking with the world through his blog, Poormet.com. His innovative recipes and stunning food photography quickly gained recognition, earning him the title of the Culinary Blogger of the Year.

What is Eggplant?

Credits: Poormet.Com – Bryan Hill

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable commonly used in culinary dishes worldwide for its unique flavor and texture.

With its deep purple skin and creamy flesh, eggplant is a staple ingredient in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. It can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, or fried to bring out its rich, earthy taste. Eggplants can vary in size and shape, from small round varieties to long and slender ones, offering culinary flexibility.

Not only does eggplant serve as a delicious base for vegetarian meals, but it also has a global significance in diverse traditional recipes, such as the Italian dish Melanzane alla Parmigiana or the Middle Eastern dip, Baba Ganoush.

How to Cook Eggplant With Egg?

Cooking eggplant with eggs is a delicious culinary endeavor that combines the rich flavors of eggplant with the lightness of beaten eggs.

One popular method to prepare this delightful dish is to start by slicing Japanese eggplant into thin rounds. These elongated eggplants are perfect for absorbing flavors and have a tender texture when cooked.

Next, prepare a mixture of beaten eggs seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. The beaten eggs will coat the eggplant slices, adding a fluffy and savory element to the dish.

For cooking, heat a non-stick pan with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat both sides evenly before gently placing them in the pan.

Allow the eggplant slices to cook until golden brown and crispy on each side, ensuring that the eggs are fully cooked through. Serve the eggplant with eggs hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

What Are the Ingredients Needed?

To cook eggplant with egg successfully, essential ingredients like ground pork, onion, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce are required.

Ground pork adds a rich and savory element to the dish, complementing the flavors of the eggplant and eggs. Onions provide depth and sweetness, while garlic brings a delicious aromatic quality. Soy sauce infuses a satisfying umami taste, enhancing the overall profile of the dish. Oyster sauce lends a touch of sweetness and complexity, balancing out the savory notes. Fish sauce contributes a salty depth, adding layers of flavor to the eggplant and egg combination.

What Are the Tools Needed?

Along with ingredients, essential tools such as a cutting board, knife, skillet, and spatula are necessary for preparing and cooking eggplant with egg.

When cooking eggplant with egg, having the right tools can make the process much smoother. A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing the eggplant evenly and safely. A sharp knife is crucial for neatly cutting the eggplant into desired shapes, ensuring even cooking. The skillet, typically a non-stick or cast-iron pan, is where the eggplant and eggs will be cooked together, creating a delicious dish. A spatula is handy for flipping the eggplant pieces gently and stirring the eggs while cooking.

What Are the Steps to Prepare the Eggplant?

Preparing the Japanese eggplant for the dish involves slicing, salting, draining, and rinsing the eggplant to reduce bitterness and enhance its texture.

Start by washing the Japanese eggplant under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Next, pat the eggplant dry with a clean kitchen towel. Then, using a sharp knife, slice the eggplant into uniform rounds or strips, depending on your recipe requirements.

Sprinkle the sliced eggplant generously with salt and allow it to sit for about 15-30 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant.

After the salting period, rinse the eggplant thoroughly under cold water to remove the salt. Squeeze the eggplant gently to remove any excess water before using it in your chosen recipe.

What Are the Steps to Cook the Eggplant?

Cooking the eggplant with egg involves sautéing the ingredients, seasoning the dish, simmering for flavors to meld, and garnishing for a visually appealing presentation.

Begin by slicing the eggplant into rounds or cubes to ensure even cooking. Heat a pan with olive oil over medium heat, then add the eggplant and gently sauté until it starts to soften.

Next, crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk them thoroughly, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Pour the beaten eggs over the sautéed eggplant, stirring gently to coat the pieces evenly.

Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to let the flavors blend.

Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the dish before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve the Eggplant with Egg?

To serve the delectable eggplant with egg dish, pair it with steamed rice, a side of ketchup, and embrace the essence of Filipino cuisine in its flavorful presentation.

When serving the eggplant with egg, the ideal accompaniment is perfectly cooked steamed rice, which complements the rich flavors of the dish. The addition of a side of ketchup provides a subtle tangy sweetness that balances the savory notes of the eggplant and egg.

For a well-rounded presentation, consider arranging the dish in traditional Filipino serving ware, highlighting the cultural influence of Filipino culinary traditions. Incorporating vibrant colors and textures in the props can elevate the visual appeal of the meal.

Filipino cuisine is deeply rooted in a blend of flavors influenced by various cultures, with rice being a staple in most dishes. The use of ketchup, often made in-house and slightly different from the Western versions, adds a unique touch to Filipino recipes, reflecting the country’s interpretation of global culinary elements.

What Are the Variations of Cooking Eggplant with Egg?

Credits: Poormet.Com – Patrick Wilson

Exploring different variations of cooking eggplant with egg opens up a world of culinary creativity, from grilled eggplant with scrambled egg to baked eggplant with poached egg and fried eggplant with sunny side up egg.

For a unique twist, consider making eggplant frittata by incorporating slices of sautéed eggplant into the egg mixture before baking to create a savory and satisfying dish.

Another delicious option is to prepare Japanese-style nasu dengaku, where eggplant is broiled and topped with a sweet miso glaze that complements the creamy texture of a soft-boiled egg.

If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with eggplant and egg in a hearty vegetable stir-fry by stir-frying chunks of eggplant, bell peppers, and onions before adding beaten eggs to create a protein-packed meal.

Alternatively, try making eggplant parmesan by layering breaded, fried eggplant slices with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese, baking until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Grilled Eggplant with Scrambled Egg

Grilling eggplant and pairing it with fluffy scrambled eggs creates a delightful combination of smoky flavors and creamy textures, perfect for a satisfying meal.

To start, choose firm and glossy eggplants for the best grilling results. Slice the eggplant into uniform rounds or lengthwise to ensure even cooking. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are tender with nice grill marks.

Meanwhile, for the scrambled eggs, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until well combined. Melt butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour in the beaten eggs. Stir gently with a spatula, allowing the eggs to cook slowly and form soft curds.

Once the eggplant is grilled to perfection and the scrambled eggs are creamy, combine them on a serving platter. The smoky notes from the grilled eggplant contrast beautifully with the velvety scrambled eggs, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Baked Eggplant with Poached Egg

Baking eggplant until tender and topping it with a perfectly poached egg with a runny yolk creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) for that perfect baking temperature. Slice the eggplant into rounds or halves depending on your preferred presentation. Sprinkle the slices with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, resulting in a firmer texture once baked. While the eggplant is resting, prepare your poached eggs by bringing a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Add a splash of vinegar to the water to help the egg whites coagulate quickly.

Fried Eggplant with Sunny Side Up Egg

Frying eggplant to a golden crispness and serving it alongside a sunny side up egg with a luscious yolk provides a delightful contrast of crunchy texture and creamy richness.

In terms of achieving that perfect golden crispiness on your eggplant, the key is to properly prepare your slices by salting them and letting them sit for a bit to draw out excess moisture. This step not only enhances the texture but also helps in reducing the bitterness often associated with eggplant varieties.

Once the eggplant is ready, gently pat it dry before dipping the slices in a light batter or coating of breadcrumbs, ensuring an extra crispy finish after frying.

What Are Some Tips for Cooking Eggplant with Egg?

Mastering the art of cooking eggplant with egg requires attention to detail, from achieving the perfect flavor balance and texture to ensuring the right level of doneness and seasoning.

Begin by selecting fresh eggplants that feel heavy for their size and have smooth, shiny skin free of blemishes. Wash and slice the eggplant into even rounds, ensuring uniform cooking. For optimal texture, consider salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture before patting them dry.

When adding the beaten eggs, aim for a light and fluffy consistency by incorporating a touch of milk or cream. Cook the eggplant slices in a preheated skillet with oil over medium heat until golden brown on both sides, ensuring they are cooked through but not mushy.

What Are the Health Benefits of Eggplant and Egg?

Eggplant and egg pack a nutritional punch, offering health benefits such as antioxidants, fiber, protein, cholesterol management, and support for weight loss.

Both eggplant and eggs are rich sources of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Eggplant, specifically, contains anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that gives it its deep purple color and anti-inflammatory properties.

On the other hand, eggs are a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and repair. They are also high in healthy fats and vitamins, which support brain function and heart health.

Rich in Antioxidants

Eggplant and eggs are rich in antioxidants, compounds that combat free radicals in the body and offer various health benefits, including cell protection and disease prevention.

Antioxidants are essential for neutralizing harmful molecules that can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases. Eggplant contains a specific antioxidant known as nasunin, which has been found to protect cell membranes from damage caused by free radicals.

Eggs, on the other hand, are rich in the antioxidant known as lutein, which plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health by reducing the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. Along with promoting cellular health, antioxidants present in eggplant and eggs also support overall well-being and contribute to a stronger immune system.

High in Fiber

Eggplant and eggs are high in fiber, a nutrient essential for digestive health, promoting satiety, and aiding in weight management.

Dietary fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal system by supporting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. By adding bulk to the stool, fiber aids in efficient digestion and helps keep things moving smoothly through the digestive tract. Foods rich in fiber, like eggplant and eggs, contribute to feelings of fullness and satisfaction after meals, which can help in controlling calorie intake and managing weight.

Good Source of Protein

Eggplant and eggs serve as a good source of protein, essential for muscle building, providing vital amino acids for overall health and wellness.

Protein is a crucial component in the human diet, playing a significant role in various physiological processes. The protein content in eggplant and eggs contributes to muscle development and repair, aiding in the growth and maintenance of muscle mass.

Eggs are often referred to as a complete protein source, containing all essential amino acids required by the body. On the other hand, eggplant offers a plant-based protein option which is also rich in fiber and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.

Lowers Cholesterol Levels

Incorporating eggplant and eggs into the diet can help lower cholesterol levels, contributing to improved heart health and overall well-being by managing dietary cholesterol intake effectively.

Eggplant is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols, all of which play a crucial role in reducing bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol levels (HDL) in the body. Its high fiber content helps in binding dietary cholesterol in the gut, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. On the other hand, eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, which can aid in balancing cholesterol levels by raising HDL and promoting overall heart health.

Helps with Weight Loss

Including eggplant and eggs in weight loss diets can be beneficial due to their satiating properties, low-calorie content, and nutrient-dense profile, supporting healthy weight management goals.

Eggplant is a great source of dietary fiber, which helps promote feelings of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. This can be especially helpful for individuals looking to manage their weight effectively.

Eggs, on the other hand, are packed with high-quality protein, another key element in feeling satisfied after a meal. The combination of these two ingredients can create a well-rounded and fulfilling diet that supports sustainable weight loss efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to cook eggplant with egg?

The best way to cook eggplant with egg is by first cutting the eggplant into slices and breading them with egg. Then, fry the eggplant slices until they are crispy and golden brown.

2. Can I use any type of eggplant for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of eggplant for this recipe. However, it is recommended to use Asian eggplants as they have a sweeter and milder flavor compared to other types of eggplants.

3. How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming mushy?

To prevent the eggplant from becoming mushy, make sure to salt the eggplant slices before cooking them. This will draw out excess moisture and prevent the eggplant from getting soggy.

4. Is it necessary to peel the eggplant before cooking?

No, it is not necessary to peel the eggplant before cooking. The skin adds texture and nutrients to the dish. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the eggplant before cooking.

5. What other ingredients can I add to this dish?

You can add other ingredients like onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish. You can also top it with cheese or serve it with a side of rice for a more filling meal.

6. Can I make a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of this recipe by substituting the egg with a flax egg or a chickpea flour batter. You can also use a plant-based milk like almond milk for a dairy-free option.