Glossy Garlic Braised Eggplant with Rice
Silky Chinese eggplant braised in a savory-sweet garlic sauce with a hint of umami, served over steamed rice. Fish sauce and soy create the glossy, sticky coating that makes this dish viral-worthy.
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 320
- Protein
- 5g

Ingredients
8 items — tap to check off
Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.
Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Cut eggplant into 2-inch chunks. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering, ~90 seconds.
Step 2
Add eggplant in a single layer. Let it sit undisturbed for 3 minutes until the bottom browns, then toss and cook 3 minutes more.
Step 3
Add minced garlic and stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant and light golden.
Step 4
Pour soy sauce, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar into the skillet. Add 1/4 cup water and bring to a simmer.
Step 5
Reduce heat to medium and braise for 8 minutes, stirring gently twice, until eggplant is silky and sauce coats everything glossy.
Step 6
Divide rice between bowls and top with braised eggplant and all the sauce.
Tools you’ll need
- large skillet (12-inch)
- cutting board
- chef's knife
- spoon for stirring
Cook smarter
Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge
Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.



