Imagine biting into tender eggplant, drenched in a rich, spicy sauce that dances on your palate. Szechuan cuisine is famous for its bold flavors, and eggplant is a perfect canvas for that magic. Get ready to explore some easy recipes that will elevate your home cooking to a whole new level!
Szechuan Spicy Garlic Eggplant


Yu Xiang Qie Zi (Sichuan-Style Braised Eggplant With Pickled Chilies and Garlic) Recipe from Serious Eats
Rating: 3.9. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
This dish bursts with flavors from garlic and spicy Szechuan peppercorns, making each bite a savory delight. The eggplant soaks up the sauce, becoming incredibly tender and aromatic.
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
This dish is a favorite because it highlights the unique numbing sensation from Szechuan peppercorns while balancing it with the sweetness of sugar. It’s perfect as a side dish or a main vegetarian course, and the garlic adds an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Sweet and Sour Szechuan Eggplant


Yu Xiang Eggplant (鱼香茄子, Sichuan Eggplant Stir Fry) from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
Get ready for a beautiful harmony of sweet and tangy flavors that will have your taste buds singing. This dish combines the natural sweetness of eggplant with a zesty sauce that packs a punch.
- 2 medium eggplants, cubed
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
This recipe stands out for its vibrant color and flavor contrast. The sweetness from sugar and tanginess from vinegar create a delightful glaze that clings to the eggplant, making each bite a refreshing experience. It’s great for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special!
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Szechuan Eggplant Stir-Fry


Szechuan Eggplant from Feasting At Home
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Five spice, soy sauce, maple syrup, japanese eggplant, sesame oil Total Time: 45 min.

Szechuan Eggplant Recipe from Edible Garden
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Pearl onions, eggplant, brown sugar, sesame oil, chilli sauce Total Time: 20 min.

Yu Xiang Eggplant (鱼香茄子, Sichuan Eggplant Stir Fry) from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Ground pork, soy sauce, chinese eggplant, ginger, sichuan peppercorn Total Time: 30 min.
This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The stir-frying technique enhances the eggplant’s natural flavors while adding a spicy kick.
- 1 pound eggplant, diced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup scallions, chopped
Stir-frying is a beloved technique in Szechuan cooking, allowing for quick cooking that preserves the integrity of the ingredients. This dish is not only flavorful but also showcases the beautiful colors of the vegetables. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies you might have!
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Mapo Eggplant

Mapo Eggplant (Mabo Nasu) from Just One Cookbook
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
This variation of the classic Mapo Tofu brings eggplant into the spotlight, making it creamy, spicy, and utterly irresistible. The combination of flavors will leave you wanting more!
- 2 medium eggplants, chopped
- 1/2 pound ground pork or mushrooms (for a vegetarian option)
- 3 tablespoons doubanjiang (fermented bean paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Mapo Eggplant is special because it takes the traditional spicy, numbing flavors of Mapo Tofu and combines them with the rich texture of eggplant. The deep umami from the ground meat or mushrooms adds a satisfying depth that makes this dish feel hearty. Serve it over rice for a comforting meal that warms the soul!
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Eggplant in Spicy Soy Sauce
This dish is simplicity at its finest, focusing on the eggplant’s flavor enhanced by a spicy soy sauce mixture. It’s perfect for those who want a quick and satisfying meal!
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon scallions, for garnish
This recipe shines because of its bold yet simple flavors. The eggplant absorbs the spicy soy sauce, making each bite a flavor explosion. It’s also a fantastic dish to whip up when you’re short on time but still want something delicious!
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Szechuan Eggplant with Basil

Braised Eggplant With Garlic and Basil Recipe from Serious Eats
Rating: 4. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
Take your taste buds on a journey with this fragrant dish that combines the earthiness of eggplant and the aromatic freshness of basil. It’s a delightful twist that brings a new dimension to Szechuan cooking.
- 2 medium eggplants, cubed
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
This recipe is unique because the basil adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy eggplant. The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for warm weather. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian delight!
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Twice-Cooked Eggplant

Yu Xiang Qie Zi (Sichuan-Style Braised Eggplant With Pickled Chilies and Garlic) Recipe from Serious Eats
Rating: 3.9. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
This dish is a showstopper, featuring eggplant that’s first steamed and then stir-fried to perfection. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.
- 2 medium eggplants, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Twice-cooked eggplant is popular because it showcases the versatility of this vegetable, giving it a unique texture that’s hard to resist. The steaming process softens the eggplant, while stir-frying adds a crispy exterior and a burst of flavor. It’s a dish that’s sure to wow anyone lucky enough to taste it!
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Szechuan Eggplant Salad

Spicy Eggplant Salad (凉拌茄子) from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.

Chinese Eggplant Salad Recipe from China Sichuan Food
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.
For a lighter take on eggplant, try this refreshing salad that combines boiled eggplant with a spicy dressing. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine in a fresh format.
- 2 medium eggplants, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon scallions, chopped
This salad is special because it’s light yet packs a flavorful punch that makes it a perfect appetizer or side dish. The combination of vinegar and chili oil creates a tangy, spicy dressing that pairs beautifully with the eggplant’s softness. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for something unique and delicious!