In this Szechuan Eggplant and Pork Stir Fry I quickly cook tender marinated pieces of pork loin with eggplant, bamboo shoots and green onion in a beautifully spiced sauce of chili and black bean paste, ginger, soy sauce, honey and few other pantry items. This Szechuan Eggplant is one delicious meal made in 20 minutes.
Cut the pork loin into 1 inch square pieces or strips. Place in a bowl to marinate with 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons soy sauce. Toss to coat and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Trim the ends off the Chinese eggplant. Cut each eggplant lengthwise into quarters, then cut crosswise into 2-inch long pieces. Toss lightly in a bowl with kosher salt and set aside to drain excess water.
Prep sauce by mixing the remaining tablespoon of cornstarch, chili paste, black bean sauce, ginger, remaining 2 tablespoons soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar and sesame oil. Stir until the honey is dissolved. Set aside.
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add the oil. Add the minced garlic and stir fry quickly. Add the pork in batches and stir fry quickly until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan or you will steam the pork. We want this stir fried.
Gently squeeze excess water from eggplant and add eggplant to pork, stir fry until seared, about 3 minutes.
Add the green onions, and bamboo shoots. Next add the sauce mixture and stir fry for a minute until fragrant and the sauce has thickened. If too thick add some chicken broth or water to thin.
Serve with steamed rice or over noodles of choice.