Liang Ban Qie Zi (Chinese Cold Eggplant Salad)

Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized eggplants (about 500g) 2 medium-sized eggplants (about 500g)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Slice the eggplants into thin rounds and steam them for about 10 minutes until tender. Let them cool.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, sugar, and chili flakes (if using).
3. 3.
   Place the cooled eggplant slices, bell peppers, and scallions in a large mixing bowl.
4. 4.
   Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to coat evenly.
5. 5.
   Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Eggplants — Make sure to slice the eggplants evenly to ensure even cooking. Steaming the eggplants helps retain their natural flavor and texture.
• Soy sauce — Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty taste.
• Sesame oil — Use toasted sesame oil for a more pronounced nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Allow the salad to marinate for longer to intensify the flavors.
• Serve the Liang Ban Qie Zi chilled for a refreshing experience.
• Customize the dish by adding other vegetables like cucumber or carrots.
• Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan for extra aroma and flavor.

Serving advice

Liang Ban Qie Zi is best served as a cold appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with other Chinese dishes such as Kung Pao Chicken or Mapo Tofu. Serve it on a platter or individual plates, garnished with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.

Presentation advice

Arrange the colorful eggplant slices, bell peppers, and scallions on a serving platter, creating an appealing visual contrast. Sprinkle the dish with sesame seeds and cilantro for an added touch of elegance.