Crispy Eggplant Bun

Crispy Eggplant Buns are a delightful vegan twist on traditional Chinese burgers, featuring battered and fried eggplant slices that are both savory and satisfying. Served in fluffy steamed buns with fresh vegetables and a zesty sauce, this dish is a perfect fusion of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• Eggplant - 1 medium (about 250g)
• All-purpose flour - 1/2 cup (60g)
• Cornstarch - 1/4 cup (30g)
• Baking powder - 1 tsp
• Salt - 1/2 tsp
• Black pepper - 1/4 tsp
• Water - 1/2 cup (120ml)
• Panko breadcrumbs - 1 cup (100g)
• Vegetable oil - for frying
• Steamed bao buns - 2 pieces
• Cucumber - 1/2 medium, thinly sliced
• Carrot - 1/2 medium, julienned
• Fresh cilantro - a handful
• Soy sauce - 1 tbsp
• Sesame oil - 1 tsp
• Chili sauce - to taste

Steps

1. Slice the eggplant into 1 cm thick rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture, then rinse and pat dry.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and water to create a batter.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat for frying.
4. Dip each eggplant slice into the batter, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it in panko breadcrumbs.
5. Fry the eggplant slices in hot oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Steam the bao buns according to package instructions until warm and fluffy.
7. Assemble the crispy eggplant buns by placing the fried eggplant in the steamed buns and topping with cucumber slices, carrot, cilantro, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili sauce.
8. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your Crispy Eggplant Buns.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 7 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants and vitamins from eggplant, which may help reduce inflammation.
• High fiber content supports digestive health and can aid in weight management.

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