Vietnamese cuisine is known for its bold and complex flavors, and one dish that perfectly embodies this is the Vietnamese braised eggplant. This dish is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy eggplant, a vegetable that is often overlooked. If you're looking for a new and exciting way to incorporate eggplant into your meals, then look no further than this authentic Vietnamese recipe.
Main Ingredients: Italian Eggplant, Onion, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you love eggplant, then this variation of beer can chicken is a must-try for you. The eggplant is first braised with onions and tomatoes, giving it a rich and flavorful taste. And when it's paired with the tender chicken, it's a match made in heaven.
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Braised Lamb Shanks Wrapped in Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Salt, Black Pepper
For a more elevated version of beer can chicken, try this recipe that uses lamb shanks instead. The tender and flavorful lamb is wrapped in thin slices of eggplant, adding a unique twist to the dish. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your dinner guests.
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Sichuan Braised Pork with Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Corn Oil, Boneless Pork Shoulder, Water, Soy Sauce
If you're a fan of spicy food, then this beer can chicken recipe is for you. The Sichuan braised pork is cooked with eggplant, giving it a delicious kick of spice and flavor. Plus, the combination of pork and chicken makes this dish even more satisfying and filling.
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Braised Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Quarters, Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion
For a simple and classic beer can chicken recipe, try braising the chicken in a flavorful broth. This method ensures that the chicken stays moist and tender while also infusing it with delicious flavors. Serve it with your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Braised Beef
Main Ingredients: Beef, Olive Oil, Butter, Button Mushrooms, Carrots
If you're not a fan of chicken, you can still enjoy the flavors of beer can chicken by using beef instead. The beef is braised in a beer and spice mixture, creating a tender and flavorful dish that is perfect for any meat lover. Serve it with your choice of vegetables or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.
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Greek-Style Braised Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Salt, Yellow Onion, Green Bell Pepper
For a taste of the Mediterranean, try this Greek-style braised eggplant with your beer can chicken. The eggplant is cooked with tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, giving it a rich and tangy flavor. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy night in.
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Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Red Pepper, Zucchini, Onion, Balsamic
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, this balsamic roasted vegetable sandwich is a must-try. The roasted vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, are served on a crusty baguette with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It's a delicious and filling meal that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
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PLANTAIN LASAGNE WITH RAINBOW SLAW
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Spring Onions, Garlic, Ginger, Scotch Bonnet
If you're in the mood for something different, try this plantain lasagne with rainbow slaw. The plantains are thinly sliced and layered with a flavorful tomato sauce, cheese, and beer can chicken. It's a creative and delicious twist on a classic lasagne dish.
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Summer Vegetable Hash with Brown Rice + Poached Egg
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Green Beans
This summer vegetable hash is a great way to use up any leftover beer can chicken. The chicken is mixed with a variety of vegetables, including corn, zucchini, and bell peppers, and served over a bed of brown rice. Top it off with a poached egg for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Vegan BLTA
Main Ingredients: Maple Syrup, Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Low Sodium
For a vegan twist on the classic BLT sandwich, try this beer can chicken recipe. The chicken is replaced with roasted eggplant and served with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo. It's a delicious and healthy option that will satisfy both vegans and meat-lovers alike.
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Roasted Vegetable Salad
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Butternut Squash, Medium Zucchini, Seeds
This roasted vegetable salad is a great way to add some greens to your beer can chicken dish. The roasted vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, are served on a bed of greens with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It's a light and refreshing option that is perfect for a summer meal.
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Low Carb Eggplant Bites
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Vegan Mayonnaise, Unsweetened Almond Milk
If you're following a low-carb diet, you can still enjoy the flavors of beer can chicken with these low carb eggplant bites. The eggplant is sliced and roasted with a flavorful seasoning, making it a delicious and healthy appetizer or side dish.
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Green Monster Veggie Burger
Main Ingredients: Frozen Peas, Kale, Florets, Broccoli, Celery Stalk
For a vegetarian option that is packed with flavor, try this green monster veggie burger. The patty is made from a combination of roasted vegetables, including eggplant, and topped with avocado, lettuce, and a creamy herb sauce. It's a burger that even meat-lovers will love.
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Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches with Vegan Arugula Walnut...
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Arugula, Basil
If you want to take your beer can chicken sandwiches to the next level, try this recipe that uses roasted eggplant instead of bread. The eggplant is topped with a flavorful vegan pesto made with arugula and walnuts, giving it a delicious and unique twist.
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Spinach and Eggplant Salad
Main Ingredients: Fresh Spinach Leaves, Cherry Tomatoes, Red Onion
This spinach and eggplant salad is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your beer can chicken dish. The roasted eggplant is mixed with spinach, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing, creating a delicious and healthy side dish.
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Vegan Shuba (Eggplant under the sea)
Main Ingredients: Beetroot, Medium Carrots, Medium Potatoes, Purple
This vegan shuba is a creative and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of beer can chicken. The dish is made with layers of roasted eggplant, carrots, and potatoes, all topped with a creamy vegan dressing. It's a unique and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion.
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South Carolina Vegan Catfish and Coleslaw
Main Ingredients: Green Cabbage, Red Cabbage, Large Carrot, White Onion
For a vegan twist on a Southern favorite, try this beer can chicken recipe that uses roasted eggplant as a substitute for catfish. The eggplant is coated in a flavorful cornmeal batter and served with a tangy coleslaw. It's a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried catfish.
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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 easy meal, try this recipe for scrumptious roasted vegetables. The eggplant is roasted with a variety of other vegetables, including sweet potatoes and bell peppers, and served with a dollop of hummus for added flavor. It's a filling and nutritious option for any day of the week.
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Baked Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Large Egg, Seasoned Breadcrumbs, Olive Oil
If you love eggplant, this beer can chicken recipe is a must-try. The eggplant is baked with a flavorful seasoning, creating a simple yet delicious side dish. Serve it with your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Tuscan Pork Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Pork Chops, Olive Oil, Dijon Style Mustard, Lemon
This Tuscan pork sandwich is a great way to enjoy the flavors of beer can chicken in a different way. The pork is cooked with a variety of herbs and seasonings and served on a crusty baguette with roasted vegetables and a tangy sauce. It's a delicious and hearty option for any meal.
The Perfect Combination of Sweet, Sour, and Spicy
When it comes to Vietnamese cuisine, balance is key. The braised eggplant recipe is no exception. This dish combines the sweetness of the eggplant with the tanginess of lime and vinegar and the spiciness of chili peppers. The result is a perfectly balanced and flavorful dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The Secret Ingredient: Fish Sauce
One of the key ingredients in this recipe is fish sauce, a staple in Vietnamese cooking. This pungent and salty sauce adds depth and umami to the dish, giving it that distinct Vietnamese flavor. Don't be put off by the smell, as it will mellow out once cooked and add that extra punch of flavor to the dish.
A Healthier Alternative to Fried Eggplant
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable, but it is often prepared by frying, which can be unhealthy. This braised eggplant recipe offers a healthier alternative that still packs a punch of flavor. By braising the eggplant, it absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce without the added oil and calories of frying.
A Simple and Easy Recipe
Don't be intimidated by the long list of ingredients, as this recipe is actually quite simple and easy to make. Once you have all the ingredients on hand, the dish comes together quickly and easily. And the best part? You can make it in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Vietnamese braised eggplant is typically served as a side dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a main course over rice. You can also add in some protein, such as tofu or shrimp, to make it a complete meal. Don't forget to top it off with some fresh herbs, like cilantro or Thai basil, for an extra burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Vietnamese braised eggplant is a must-try dish for any food lover. Its balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, combined with the unique addition of fish sauce, makes it a standout in Vietnamese cuisine. Give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness of Vietnamese cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
