Eggplant

A Funny Looking Fruit

Technically speaking, eggplants are fruits but for our purposes, they are vegetables. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and it is even said that they can lower cholesterol.

Eggplant Appetizer

5 eggplants, peeled and cubed
5 green bell peppers, seeded and chopped
5 chopped tomatoes
5 chopped onions
1 1/2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1 cup water

Put the eggplant, green pepper, tomato, and onion in a large pot. Separately, combine the remaining ingredients then pour it over the vegetables. Bring it to a boil then simmer over medium/low heat for half an hour or until the vegetables are done. (You can add more water if needed.)

Grilled Eggplant

1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
4 eggplants, halved lengthwise
Vegetable oil
Chopped fresh mint or cilantro leaves (optional)

Preheat your grill. Smash the garlic and a pinch of salt to form a paste. Use a whisk mix in the vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red chili flakes. Brush the eggplant with oil and sprinkle it with salt and pepper. Grill it until it is slightly charred and cooked through. Drizzle the vinegar mixture over the grilled eggplant. Garnish with mint or cilantro, if desired.