Even Eggplant Haters Will Love This Korean Spicy Garlic Eggplant! l Gaji Namul

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make Korean Spicy Garlic Eggplant, also known as Gaji Namul. This dish is not only flavorful but also approachable for those who may not typically enjoy eggplant. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious side dish that’s bound to impress.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

To prepare Gaji Namul, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized eggplants
• 4 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons of gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes)
• 4 tablespoons of minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Practical Tip: Ensure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggplant

• Rinse the eggplants under cold water.
• Cut the eggplants into bite-sized pieces, either lengthwise or into rounds, depending on your preference.
• Place the cut eggplant in a bowl of salted water for about 10-15 minutes. This helps remove bitterness and excess moisture.

Common Pitfall: Don’t skip the salting step. It enhances the flavor and texture of the eggplant.

Step 3: Cook the Eggplant

• Drain and rinse the eggplant pieces after soaking.
• In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil.
• Sauté the eggplant for about 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly golden.

Practical Tip: You can also roast the eggplant in the oven if you prefer a healthier option. Simply spread the pieces on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

• In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, gochugaru, minced garlic, sesame oil, and sugar.
• Stir until well combined.

Real-World Application: Adjust the level of gochugaru to increase or decrease the spiciness based on your taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

• Once the eggplant is cooked, remove it from the heat.
• Pour the sauce over the warm eggplant and mix well to ensure all pieces are coated.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Practical Tip: Serve the dish warm or at room temperature as a side to rice or other Korean dishes.

Conclusion

You now have a step-by-step guide to making Korean Spicy Garlic Eggplant, a dish that's easy to prepare and sure to please even those who are skeptical about eggplant. Enjoy exploring this flavorful side dish and consider pairing it with your favorite main course for a complete meal. Happy cooking!