This Sesame Ginger Roasted Eggplant is a culinary delight, bringing together the rich flavors of sesame oil, soy sauce, and ginger. Sliced and roasted to perfection, the eggplant offers a caramelized exterior and a tender interior.

Growing up, eggplant was one of my least favorite foods. It was one of the few vegetables that, even when she battered and fried it, my mom could not get me to eat. As I’ve gotten older, however, I’ve learned to appreciate its tender texture. Eggplant is a fantastic base for seasonings, as it absorbs the flavors like a sponge. Like tofu, it’s all in the preparation!

My personal favorite cooking method for eggplant is oven roasting, as it allows the dish to really simmer in the marinade and reach a soft, plush consistency. Although there is an infinite number of possibilities when it comes to flavoring roasted eggplant, I have a soft spot for Asian-inspired tastes, as that was what I grew up with my mom preparing. This recipe combines the intense aroma of sesame oil and a sharp bite of ginger for an appetizer or side that is sure to impress all.

How to Make Sesame Ginger Roasted Eggplant

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for GF
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• Pinch ground black pepper
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and set aside.
2. Cut the ends off of the eggplant and cut in half lengthwise. Score with two sets of diagonal lines spaced 1” apart to create a cross-hatch pattern.
3. In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and pepper. Evenly coat the flesh side of both eggplant halves with this mixture.
4. Place eggplant halves flesh side down onto a lined baking sheet. Roast until skins are collapsed and flesh is caramelized about 35 minutes.
5. Remove from oven and flip eggplant halves so skin sides are down. Allow to cool slightly and sprinkle with sesame seeds before enjoying.

Tips:

• Perfect Crosshatch: Achieve a beautiful crosshatch pattern on the eggplant by scoring it with two sets of diagonal lines spaced 1” apart. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows the flavorful marinade to penetrate evenly.
• Even Coating: Ensure a balanced flavor by generously coating the flesh side of both eggplant halves with the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and pepper mixture. Use a brush or spoon to spread the marinade evenly for a consistent taste throughout.

How to Serve Sesame Ginger Roasted Eggplant

Serving the Sesame Ginger Roasted Eggplant is easy and enjoyable. Here’s what you can do:

1. Place It Nicely: Put the roasted eggplant halves on a plate or a dish, making sure they look good.
2. Sprinkle Sesame Seeds: Add sesame seeds on top of the eggplant. This makes it look nice and adds more flavor.
3. Eat with Other Foods: You can eat the eggplant with your favorite main dish. It goes well with many different foods like meat, and rice, or even on its own.
4. Add Something Fresh (If You Want): If you like, you can make it even better by putting chopped green onions or cilantro on top. This gives more color and taste.
5. Eat while Warm: The best time to eat it is when it’s still warm. Serve it right after you cook it to enjoy the best taste.
6. Change It if You Like: Feel free to try new things. You can add more toppings or dip it in sauce to make it just how you like it.

Whether you eat it alone or with other foods, Sesame Ginger Roasted Eggplant will make your meal tasty and special.

FAQ

Can I use other types of eggplant for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different varieties of eggplant. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type.

Is it necessary to use tamari for a gluten-free version?

No, you can use tamari or soy sauce interchangeably. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, ensure your soy sauce is labeled gluten-free.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and pepper ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover roasted eggplant?

To maintain the texture, it’s recommended to reheat the eggplant in the oven or toaster oven. This helps preserve its crispiness.

Can I freeze Sesame Ginger Roasted Eggplant?

While eggplant can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but freezing is an option if needed.

What can I pair with this dish for a complete meal?

Sesame Ginger Roasted Eggplant pairs well with a variety of main dishes such as grilled chicken, and tofu, or even as a tasty topping for rice or noodles. Experiment and find your favorite combination!