Steamed Eggplant (Gaji Namul)

Ingredients

• 2 Asian eggplants (Use 2–3 eggplants; choose firm, shiny eggplants without soft spots or blemishes.)
• 1 cup Water (For steaming; keep the water below the steaming basket or rack.)
• 2 Garlic (Use 2–3 cloves, minced.)
• 1 Green onions (Use 1–2 green onions, sliced.)
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Sesame oil
• 1 tsp Sugar
• Black pepper (A pinch, or adjust to taste.)
• 1 tsp Gochugaru (Optional; use 1–2 teaspoons Korean red pepper flakes.)
• Sesame seeds (Optional garnish.)

Steps

1. 1

   Place a steaming basket or rack in a pot. Add 1 cup of water, making sure the water remains below the basket, and bring the water to a boil.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, trim the tops from the eggplants.

3. 3

   Cut each eggplant crosswise into 3–4 pieces, depending on its length. Slice each piece in half lengthwise.

4. 4

   Reduce the heat to medium. Arrange the eggplant pieces skin-side down in the steamer.

5. 5

   Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender but not mushy.

6. 6

   Transfer the steamed eggplant to a plate and let it cool until it is easy to handle.

7. 7

   While the eggplant cools, combine the minced garlic, sliced green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, black pepper, and optional gochugaru in a large bowl.

8. 8

   Tear each piece of eggplant lengthwise into 2–3 strips, depending on its size. If the eggplant has released a lot of liquid, gently drain it before adding it to the seasoning.

9. 9

   Add the eggplant to the seasoning mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.

10. 10

    Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with optional sesame seeds and serve.

Notes

The author notes that Asian eggplants typically have fewer seeds and are less bitter than globe eggplants. Gochugaru can be omitted for a milder version. Quantities marked as ranges are represented by the lower end of the range, with the full range retained in the ingredient note.

Nutrition per serving

• side dish
• vegetarian
• vegan
• gluten-free adaptable
• steamed
• Korean
• quick
• spicy optional