Salt And Pepper Aubergine (Eggplant)
This Vegan version of a classic Chinese Takeaway is easy to make and something everyone will enjoy.

If you have been following my food journey you would know I LOVE East Asian Cuisine. Additionally, Salt and Pepper wings and ribs are one of my favourite appetizers to order from my local takeaway. I enjoy the mix of fragrant and spiced flavours along with the fried onion and chilies that accompany them.
Although I’m not vegan I do love to incorporate meatless meals into our dietary routines. Its also a fun way to get kids and ourselves to eat more varieties of vegetables.
What is Chinese 5 Spice?
This fragrant blend is made from the following spices: Anise seed, fennel, cinnamon, cloves, and black or Sichuan peppercorns. You can often find it used on Meat and poultry in Chinese cuisine and something really popular in Chinese Takeaway.

Ingredients
There are only a few key ingredients you will need and are all available at your local supermarket:
- Aubergine (Eggplant) – Grab a medium to large sized Aubergine if possible, however the measurements can easily be adjusted.
- Yellow or white onion – Any onion is fine, I prefer the lighter versions for this recipe.
- Chilies – Fresh are always best but dried chilies or chili flakes are also good to use.
- Chinese 5 Spice seasoning – This seasoning can be made from scratch or purchased at any supermarket in the spice section.
- Corn flour – this gives the Aubergine a nice crunch when fried in oil
Tips on Making Salt and Pepper Aubergine
- Make sure to salt the Aubergine cubes and let them sit for at least 5 minutes to draw out access moisture. Dab with a paper towel before seasoning.
- Everything always tastes better fried, however use the airfrier for a healthier version that still amazing on flavour.
- As soon as the Aubergine, onion and chilies are cooked toss them in the Seasonings while they are still hot. This helps the flavours to coat evenly.
Drop a comment blow and let me know what you think. If you decide to make any of my recipes leave me a comment or tag me on Instagram @myeagereats or hashtag #myeatereats .
I’d Love to hear from you!
Recommendations
Check out a few of my other recipes:
- Quick Meal ideas: Sweet and Sour Fish
- Quick and Easy Crispy Teriyaki Turkey
- Make Your Own Steamed Bao Buns at Home
Salt and pepper Aubergine is fried until golden brown then tossed into a fragrant and spicy Salt & Pepper seasoning with onion and chili.

First, Cut the Aubergine into 1 inch cubes then add salt and allow to sit for 5 minutes. Using a paper towel, pat the cubes removing any moisture. Season then coat with cornflour.
Next, add oil to a large pan and place on medium high heat. Carefully add the cubes frying until golden on each of its sides then remove and place to the side.
To the same pan fry the onions and toss in the sliced chilies. Cook for 2 minutes or until the onions cooked but still firm. Remove from heat and add to the aubergine.
Finally, Make the 5 spice by Combining all of the seasonings. Toss into the Aubergine, onion and chili and mix well.
Serve as an appetizer or over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Directions
First, Cut the Aubergine into 1 inch cubes then add salt and allow to sit for 5 minutes. Using a paper towel, pat the cubes removing any moisture. Season then coat with cornflour.
Next, add oil to a large pan and place on medium high heat. Carefully add the cubes frying until golden on each of its sides then remove and place to the side.
To the same pan fry the onions and toss in the sliced chilies. Cook for 2 minutes or until the onions cooked but still firm. Remove from heat and add to the aubergine.
Finally, Make the 5 spice by Combining all of the seasonings. Toss into the Aubergine, onion and chili and mix well.
Serve as an appetizer or over rice or noodles.