Stir-Fried Eggplant, known in Chinese as Qingchao Qiezi (清炒茄子), is a simple, comforting dish commonly prepared in Chinese households. Unlike heavily sauced versions, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness and silky texture of eggplant with light seasoning and fresh garlic.

It’s quick, affordable, and perfect for everyday meals.

🥢 Why This Dish Is Popular

Quick 15–20 minute recipe

Uses simple pantry ingredients

Light yet flavorful

Vegetarian-friendly

Pairs perfectly with rice

This is classic “home cooking” — not overly spicy, not overly saucy.

🥬 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2 long Chinese eggplants (or 1 large globe eggplant)

3 tbsp cooking oil

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tbsp ginger (optional)

2 green onions (chopped)


Seasoning:

1 tbsp light soy sauce

½ tsp salt

½ tsp sugar (optional)

2–3 tbsp water or vegetable broth

½ tsp sesame oil (optional)

Optional additions:

Fresh red chili (for heat)

Bell peppers (for color)

A splash of Chinese black vinegar

🔪 Preparation

  1. Wash and cut eggplant into long strips or cubes.

  2. Soak in salted water for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness.

  3. Drain and pat dry.

Tip: Chinese eggplants are ideal because they are less bitter and contain fewer seeds.

🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Step 1: Heat the Wok

Heat oil over medium-high heat until hot.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add garlic (and ginger if using).
Stir-fry for about 20 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Eggplant

Add eggplant pieces.
Stir frequently for 5–7 minutes.

Eggplant absorbs oil quickly. If it looks dry, sprinkle a little water instead of adding extra oil.

Step 4: Season

Add soy sauce, salt, sugar, and water.
Cover and cook 2–3 minutes until eggplant becomes soft and tender.

Step 5: Finish

Remove lid and cook until slightly caramelized.
Drizzle sesame oil.
Garnish with chopped green onions.

Serve hot.

🍚 Serving Suggestions

Best served with:

Steamed jasmine rice

Simple tofu dishes

Stir-fried greens

Light soups

🌟 Taste & Texture

Soft, silky interior

Mild savory flavor

Light garlic aroma

Slight natural sweetness

This dish is gentle and comforting — perfect for everyday meals.

💡 Cooking Tips

✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan
✔ Cook on medium heat to avoid burning
✔ Stir gently once eggplant softens
✔ Add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry if you want slight sauce thickness

🥗 Health Benefits

High in fiber

Rich in antioxidants

Supports heart health

Low in calories

Eggplant is both nutritious and satisfying.

🌏 Variations

Spicy Version – Add chili paste or dried chilies

Garlic Lovers Version – Double garlic

Black Bean Sauce Version – Add fermented black beans

Basil Version – Add Thai basil at the end

🏮 Final Thoughts

Stir-Fried Eggplant (清炒茄子) proves that simple ingredients can create deep flavor when cooked properly. It’s a must-learn recipe for anyone exploring authentic Chinese home-style cuisine.