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photo of fried eggplant agedashi and toppings

Japanese Fried Eggplant (Agedashi Nasu) Recipe

Agedashi Eggplant: A Perfect Blend of Crispy and Tender
This recipe is perfect for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, and is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious taste and unique presentation.
If you're looking for a dish that combines the crispy goodness of deep-fried delicacies with the tender and flavorful taste of eggplant, then Agedashi Eggplant is the perfect choice. This dish is known for its simplicity and elegance, allowing the delicate flavors of the eggplant to shine through.
Let's dive in and discover how to make this delectable dish right in your own kitchen
So, without further ado, grab your apron and let's get cooking!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium-sized saucepan
  • Slotted spoon
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Paper towels
  • Serving plate

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium-sized eggplants
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup of dashi broth a Japanese cooking stock
  • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of mirin a sweet rice wine
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
  • Scallions thinly sliced, for garnish
  • Grated daikon radish for garnish
  • Bonito flakes for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Eggplant

  • Wash the eggplants and remove the stems. Cut them into ½-inch thick rounds.
  • Create a checkerboard pattern on the surface of each eggplant round by making shallow cuts diagonally in one direction, then making shallow cuts diagonally in the opposite direction to form a grid-like pattern.

Fry the Eggplant

  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  • Gently place the eggplant slices into the hot oil and fry them until they turn a golden brown color and become crispy. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
  • Once fried, remove the eggplant slices from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Make the Dashi Broth

  • In a separate saucepan, combine the dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  • Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Coat the Eggplant

  • In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry.
  • Dip each fried eggplant slice into the cornstarch slurry, making sure to coat all sides evenly.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Pour the hot dashi broth into individual serving bowls.
  • Place the cornstarch-coated eggplant slices into the bowls, arranging them in a single layer.
  • Garnish with sliced scallions, grated daikon radish, and a sprinkle of bonito flakes.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful combination of crispy eggplant and flavorful broth!

Notes

Nutritional Facts

Agedashi Eggplant is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here are the approximate nutritional values per serving:
  • Calories: 150
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fiber: 4g
Please note that these values may vary slightly depending on the size of the eggplants used and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.
Eggplant Agedashi is a delightful dish that brings together the crispy texture of fried eggplant with the umami flavors of the dashi broth. With its simple yet elegant preparation, it's the perfect recipe to impress and delight everybody with your culinary skills.
So, why not give it a try and savor the deliciousness of Japanese cuisine in the comfort of your own home? Enjoy!
Remember to use the recommended equipment, implement the provided tips, and pair it with a refreshing wine to enhance the dining experience.
Your family and friends will appreciate your culinary expertise and enjoy trying out this unique Japanese recipe.
So go ahead, prepare your ingredients, and showcase your cooking skills by sharing this delicious Agedashi Eggplant recipe.
Happy cooking!
Keyword Agedashi, Agedashi eggplant, Agedashi Nasu, eggplant, Fried Eggplant, Japanese Fried Eggplant, vegetarian