Best Easy Japanese Pickled Mustard Eggplant Recipe
Japanese cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients, and one such ingredient is pickled mustard eggplant. This tangy and savory dish is a popular side dish in Japan, often served with rice or as a topping for various dishes. If you’re a fan of pickled vegetables, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 2 tablespoons salt
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
Instructions:
1. Start by washing the eggplants and removing the stems. Cut them into thin slices or julienne strips.
2. Sprinkle salt evenly over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture from the eggplants.
3. Rinse the eggplants thoroughly to remove the salt. Squeeze out any excess water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
4. In a bowl, mix together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and mustard seeds until well combined.
5. Add the eggplant slices to the bowl and toss gently to coat them evenly with the marinade.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
7. After the marinating time, the pickled mustard eggplant is ready to be served. You can enjoy it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
FAQs:
1. Can I use other types of eggplant for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other varieties of eggplant, but the texture and taste may vary.
2. Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less mustard seeds.
3. Can I substitute rice vinegar with other types of vinegar?
Rice vinegar is preferred for its mild and slightly sweet flavor, but you can use other types of vinegar if necessary.
4. Can I skip the marinating step?
The marinating step is essential for infusing the flavors into the eggplant. Skipping it may result in a less flavorful dish.
5. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
6. Can I use this pickled mustard eggplant as a topping for sushi?
Yes, it can be a delicious addition to sushi rolls or nigiri.
7. Can I make a larger batch and store it for a longer time?
Yes, you can double or triple the recipe and store it in the refrigerator for up to a month.
8. Can I use this pickled mustard eggplant in other dishes?
Yes, you can use it as a condiment or topping for sandwiches, salads, or even stir-fries.
9. Can I use this recipe for canning?
This recipe is not suitable for canning as it is a quick pickling method.
10. Can I use this recipe for pickling other vegetables?
Yes, you can use the same marinade for pickling other vegetables like cucumbers or radishes.
11. Can I use this recipe for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it does not contain any animal products.
In conclusion, this Best Easy Japanese Pickled Mustard Eggplant Recipe is a simple and delicious way to incorporate the flavors of Japanese cuisine into your meals. With its tangy and savory taste, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy the unique flavors of pickled mustard eggplant!