17 Healthy Recipe For Japanese Eggplant You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
Japan has a rich culinary history, with a wide array of unique and delicious dishes. One of the most versatile and commonly used ingredients in Japanese cuisine is eggplant, or "nasu" in Japanese. This purple vegetable is a staple in many traditional dishes, and is packed with nutrients and health benefits. From stir-fries to grilled dishes, Japanese eggplant can be prepared in a variety of ways. In this article, we will share a healthy recipe for Japanese eggplant that is easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Tahini, Garlic Cloves, Fresh Lemons, Cumin
Kick off your culinary journey with this classic Baba Ghanoush recipe. Made with roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, this dip is full of bold flavors and is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
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Summer Vegetable Hash with Brown Rice + Poached Egg
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Green Beans
Take advantage of the fresh produce of summer with this delicious vegetable hash. Packed with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn, this dish is not only tasty but also healthy. Serve it alongside your juicy beer can chicken for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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Scrumptious Roasted Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Large Carrot, Red Onions, Red Bell Pepper
If you're looking for a simple and flavorful side dish, these roasted vegetables are the way to go. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a colorful and nutritious addition to your beer can chicken. Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to find your perfect combination.
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Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Salt, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Medium
This classic French dish is a delicious way to use up any extra vegetables you have on hand. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that can stand alone or be served alongside your beer can chicken. Plus, it's a great way to add more veggies to your diet in a delicious way.
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Eggplant Fricassée
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Tomatoes, Sweet Onions, Extra Virgin Olive
Add some Mediterranean flair to your beer can chicken with this Eggplant Fricassée recipe. Tender eggplant, tomatoes, and olives come together in a flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. Serve it over rice or with a crusty baguette for a complete meal.
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Healthy Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Onion, Minced Garlic, Bell Pepper, Medium Zucchini
If you're looking for a healthier version of the classic Ratatouille, this recipe is for you. By using a spiralizer to create noodles out of zucchini and eggplant, you can enjoy all the flavors of the traditional dish without the added carbs. Serve it with your beer can chicken for a well-balanced meal.
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Baba Ghanoush Dip and Salad Dressing
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Tahini, Garlic, Fresh Lemon, Salt, Cayenne
Get creative with this Baba Ghanoush recipe and use it as both a dip and a salad dressing. Thin it out with a little water or olive oil and drizzle it over a fresh salad for a burst of flavor. The creamy texture and bold flavors will complement your beer can chicken perfectly.
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Cheesy Eggplant Bake
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Small Onion, Garlic
Cheese lovers, this one's for you. This Cheesy Eggplant Bake is a decadent side dish that is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Layers of tender eggplant, tomato sauce, and melty cheese make this a delicious addition to your beer can chicken. Don't be surprised if it becomes a family favorite.
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Roasted Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Salt, Olive Oil, Dried Basil, Garlic Powder
Sometimes, simplicity is key. This Roasted Eggplant recipe is proof of that. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a flavorful and healthy side dish to serve with your beer can chicken. It's also a great option for those following a plant-based diet.
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Shashuka
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Smoked Paprika, Ground Cumin
Step out of your comfort zone and try this Middle Eastern-inspired dish. Shashuka is a flavorful tomato and egg dish that is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a light dinner. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
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Eggplant Casserole
Main Ingredients: Onion, Oil, Eggplant, Green Pepper, Mushroom Sauce
Looking for a hearty and comforting side dish? Look no further than this Eggplant Casserole. Layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese make this dish a crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken on a chilly evening.
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Ratatouille’s Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Onion, Garlic Cloves, Tomato Puree, Olive Oil
This recipe is a twist on the classic Ratatouille, using thinly sliced vegetables to create a beautiful and delicious presentation. The flavors are still the same, but the presentation is taken to the next level. It's a great way to impress your dinner guests and elevate your beer can chicken meal.
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Baked Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Olive Oil, Green Peppers, Small Onion
This Baked Eggplant recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. By baking it in the oven, you get a tender and slightly crispy texture that pairs perfectly with your beer can chicken. Try seasoning it with your favorite herbs and spices for a personalized touch.
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How To Make Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Fresh Tomatoes, Olive Oil, Fresh Thyme, Shallot, Garlic
If you've always wanted to try making Ratatouille but were intimidated by the process, this recipe is for you. With step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Ratatouille to serve with your beer can chicken. It's a great way to expand your cooking skills and impress your dinner guests.
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Healthy Air Fryer Eggplant [Oil Free]
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Low Sodium Vegetable Broth, Garlic Powder
If you have an air fryer, you have to try this Healthy Air Fryer Eggplant recipe. By eliminating the need for oil, you can enjoy a healthier version of this tasty vegetable. Plus, the air fryer gives the eggplant a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with your juicy beer can chicken.
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Sweet & Tangy Grilled Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Oil Spray, Oil, Ketchup, Red Wine Vinegar
This Sweet & Tangy Grilled Eggplant recipe is a unique and flavorful way to enjoy this vegetable. The sweet and tangy marinade gives the eggplant a delicious and slightly caramelized flavor that pairs well with the savory flavors of your beer can chicken. It's a great option for a summer barbecue.
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Greek-Style Braised Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Salt, Yellow Onion, Green Bell Pepper
Take your taste buds on a trip to Greece with this delicious Greek-Style Braised Eggplant recipe. The tender and flavorful eggplant pairs perfectly with the tangy Greek yogurt and savory herbs and spices. Serve it with your beer can chicken for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
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Baba Ghanoush
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Tahini, Lemon Juice, Garlic, Ground Cumin
This Baba Ghanoush recipe is a slightly different take on the classic, using roasted red peppers to add a unique twist. The combination of the smoky eggplant and sweet peppers creates a delicious and complex flavor that will complement your beer can chicken perfectly.
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Spicy Eggplant and Sausage Zucchini Pasta
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful pasta dish, this Spicy Eggplant and Sausage Zucchini Pasta is a must-try. The spicy eggplant and sausage add a kick of flavor while the zucchini noodles keep the dish light and healthy. It's a great way to switch up your usual beer can chicken dinner.
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Eggplant Mapo Tofu
Main Ingredients: Chicken Stock, Cornstarch, Low Sodium Soy Sauce
This Eggplant Mapo Tofu recipe is a delicious and unique way to incorporate tofu into your diet. The tender eggplant and flavorful tofu come together in a spicy and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with your beer can chicken. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice level to your liking.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a look at the ingredients you will need to make this healthy dish. You will need Japanese eggplant, miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. These ingredients are all easily accessible in most grocery stores and are essential in Japanese cooking. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious umami flavor that is characteristic of Japanese cuisine.
Health Benefits of Japanese Eggplant
Japanese eggplant is a low-calorie vegetable, making it an excellent choice for those watching their weight. It is also a great source of dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and aid in digestion. Additionally, eggplant is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, which are essential for maintaining overall health.
Recipe
Now, onto the main event - the recipe! Follow these simple steps to create a healthy and delicious Japanese eggplant dish.
Step 1: Begin by washing and drying two medium-sized Japanese eggplants. Cut them into 1-inch cubes and set them aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of miso paste, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 clove of minced garlic.Step 3: In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant cubes and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until lightly browned.
Step 4: Pour the miso sauce over the eggplant and mix well. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the eggplant is tender.
Step 5: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the dish and serve hot.
Enjoy Your Healthy Japanese Eggplant Dish
This easy and delicious recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish for a Japanese-inspired dinner. It is also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and reap the health benefits of Japanese eggplant. So, next time you're in the mood for a nourishing and flavorful meal, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds and body will thank you.
We hope you enjoyed learning about this healthy recipe for Japanese eggplant. Stay tuned for more delicious and nutritious Japanese-inspired dishes. In the meantime, try out this recipe and let us know what you think!