Chilli Steamed Aubergine

Ingredients

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• 1 large aubergine
• 3 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Chinkiang vinegar
• Pinch of sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cm ginger
• 2 spring onions
• 1 tbsp Crunchy Spice (or to taste)
• 3 tbsp sunflower oil (or other neutral oil)

Method

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1. Cut the aubergine into finger-sized strips.
2. Steam the aubergine until tender: steam for 8-10 minutes, or microwave in a covered glass or ceramic container with 2 tablespoons water for 4 minutes.
3. Grate the garlic and ginger, and finely slice the spring onions.
4. Mix together the soy sauce, vinegar, salt, sugar and Crunchy Spice.
5. Drain the aubergine when tender but not falling apart, and place in a shallow bowl.
6. Pile the ginger, garlic and spring onions on top of the aubergine.
7. Heat the sunflower oil until hot, then pour over the top to sizzle the ginger and garlic and release their aroma.
8. Pour the sauce mixture over the top.
9. Enjoy at room temperature as part of a banquet or simply over rice.