Cold Smashed Aubergine with Chilli Oil and Garlic
Silky steamed aubergine pulled into strips and dressed with garlic, tamari and chilli oil, served cold.
Made with Chinese chilli oil. Make a batch of the base first, then this takes minutes. Skip to the method
- Time30 min
- LevelEasy
- Costabout £1.80 a head
Cost is worked out from Aldi and Tesco shelf prices in October 2026. Your shop and brands will differ.
Ingredients
Tick what you need to buy. It goes on your shopping list.
Method
- 1
Cut the aubergines in half lengthways, then into batons about 8 cm long.
- 2
Steam the aubergine over simmering water in a covered steamer for 15 minutes, until completely soft and collapsing.
15 min - 3
Lift out onto a plate, cover loosely and leave for 15 minutes to cool, then gently squeeze out any excess liquid.
15 min - 4
Mix the garlic, tamari, vinegar and sesame oil in a bowl.
- 5
Pull the aubergine into strips with two forks and add to the dressing. Toss gently.
- 6
Pile onto a plate, spoon over your ready made Chinese chilli oil (see the base recipe) and scatter with the spring onions and coriander.
Tips
- Steaming gives silkier aubergine than frying and uses almost no oil.
- Squeeze out the liquid so the dressing does not get watery.
- If you have no steamer, microwave the aubergine in a covered dish for 8 to 10 minutes.
Storing and freezing
Keeps up to 2 days in the fridge, covered, once cooled within 2 hours. Serve cold. Do not freeze.
Questions
Can I serve it warm?
Yes, but it is traditionally served cold or at room temperature. Warm aubergine is fine if you are short of time.
How do I make it milder?
Use less chilli oil and add more tamari and vinegar. The garlic carries a lot of the flavour.
Is it gluten free and vegan?
Yes, with gluten free tamari. It is also dairy free, egg free and nut free.
More made with chinese chilli oil
Double check before you cook. Recipes can contain mistakes. Any diet labels come from the ingredients as written in this recipe and are a guide, not a guarantee. Always check every ingredient and the packet label for allergens and cross contamination, and ask your doctor or dietitian what is right for you, especially with coeliac disease, diabetes or a serious allergy. This is not medical advice.