Japanese Sweet Soy Chicken and Eggplant Delight

This versatile recipe from Japan offers a delightful combination of flavors that can cater to various dietary preferences, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who loves Japanese cuisine. It resembles the sweetness of Chinese sweet and sour sauce but boasts a lighter, unique taste. Whether you're a fan of Japanese cuisine or simply looking to enjoy a delicious and adaptable meal, this Sweet Soy Chicken and Eggplant Delight will satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 eggplant
• 1 green bell pepper
• 4 oz chicken thigh (or substitute with tofu for a vegan option)

Marinade:

• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp's sake
• 1/2 tsp minced ginger
• 1/2 tsp minced garlic

Sauce:

• 1 tbsp's sake
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp mushroom seasoning

Others:

• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cooking oil

Directions:

1. 1-Cut the chicken (or tofu) into 1-inch cubes and marinate them with soy sauce, sake, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Allow them to sit for 1 hour. After marinating, coat the chicken (or tofu) with cornstarch.

2. 2-Dice the eggplant into 1-inch cubes and also cut the green bell pepper into 1-inch pieces.

3. 3-In a pan, use a small amount of oil to pan-fry both the eggplant and bell pepper until they are tender. Set them aside.

4. 4-In the same pan, add more oil and pan-fry the marinated chicken (or tofu) until it turns a lovely golden-brown color.

5. 5-Once the chicken (or tofu) is cooked, return the cooked eggplant and bell pepper to the pan.

6. 6-In a separate bowl, mix together sake, soy sauce, sugar, and mirin to create the delicious sauce. You can adjust the seasoning for your family to taste.

7. 7-Pour the sauce into the pan with the chicken (or tofu), eggplant, and bell pepper. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

8. Serve this delectable dish with steamed rice and savor the flavors of Japan in every bite.

Whether you're a fan of Japanese cuisine or simply looking to enjoy a delicious and adaptable meal, this Sweet Soy Chicken and Eggplant Delight is sure to satisfy your taste buds.