25 Best Japanese Eggplant Recipes

These Japanese eggplant recipes are guaranteed to please! As a fan of Japanese cuisine, I’ve always been intrigued by the unique and flavorful dishes of this country.

And eggplant is one of my favorite vegetables to incorporate into meals.

This Japanese-staple ingredient can be used in a variety of dishes from stir-fries to stews.

Let’s get straight into some incredible Japanese eggplant recipes.

1. Japanese Tofu & Eggplant Ginger Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is so easy to prepare. The recipe is simple but the flavors and textures are complex and delicious. 

The tofu and eggplant provide a hearty base while the ginger adds a subtle but spicy kick. The dish can be served alone or with a side of rice.

2. Miso-Glazed Japanese Eggplant (Nasu Dengaku) 

Just wait until you discover the wonders of miso-glazed Japanese eggplant. The umami-rich miso perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the eggplant.

Plus, if eggplant isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with zucchini or portobello mushrooms.

3. Mapo Eggplant

This recipe has such a unique combination of flavors! The sauce also has a numbing quality that comes from the Sichuan peppercorns used. 

It’s typically served over rice, but it pairs nicely with noodles as well.

4. Soy-Glazed Eggplant Donburi

Here’s another recipe you’ll want to keep in your arsenal. The flavors of the tender eggplant, salty soy sauce, and sweet mirin come together in perfect harmony. 

Top it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a slice of avocado. It’s a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. 

Pair it with some steamed rice and pickled ginger for a complete Japanese-inspired dish.

5. Sauteed Japanese Eggplant

Sauteed Japanese eggplant is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of veggies, sauces, and aromatics. 

The natural sweetness of the eggplant mingles perfectly with the savory soy sauce. And the green onion and ginger add a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.

6. Japanese Eggplant Salad

This dish is a wonderful blend of savory, salty, and sweet flavors. The recipe calls for thinly sliced eggplants that are grilled to perfection. 

Then, you toss them with a classic Asian-inspired dressing.

For a more substantial meal, this salad can be served with rice or noodles.

7. Miso-Roasted Eggplant With Turmeric-Tahini Sauce 

This recipe is an exciting fusion of Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. The umami-rich miso paste helps to caramelize the eggplant. 

And the bright yellow turmeric adds a hint of spice and a gorgeous color to the dish. It’s best served with a side of rice or quinoa and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.

8. Deep Fried Eggplant in Dashi Broth (Nasu No Agebitashi) 

The crispy texture of the eggplant combined with the dashi broth creates a flavor explosion. This traditional Japanese dish is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. 

The subtle saltiness of the broth complements the sweetness of the eggplant perfectly.

You can enjoy it as a side dish or even as a main course over a bed of rice.

9. Grilled Eggplant Skewers

I have always been a fan of vegetables, and grilled eggplant skewers are just one of my favorites. The recipe is straightforward, requiring less than 15 minutes to whip up.

Serve these skewers as part of a Mediterranean-inspired feast. They’re wonderful with warm pita bread, creamy hummus, and a bright tomato salad.

10. Miso Salmon, Eggplant & Soba Noodle Stir-Fry

As a lover of all things seafood, I was thrilled to try out this recipe. The blend of flavors is impeccable. The umami taste of the miso pairs perfectly with the buttery texture of the salmon.

Add some thinly-sliced green onions on top for an additional pop of color and flavor.

11. Eggplant Stir-Fry With Thai Basil and Chicken

Once you try this stir-fry, you’ll put it into your weekly meal rotation! The way the tender eggplant and chicken absorb the savory sauce is irresistible. 

And of course, Thai basil adds a unique twist with its subtle anise-like flavor.

Sprinkle in some ginger and chili for extra zing.

12. Miso Japanese Grilled Eggplant Steak

The combination of the smoky flavor of eggplant with the umami taste of miso is to die for in this recipe. The flavors work together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and full of depth. 

Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some fresh scallions for an extra burst of flavor.

13. Sesame Eggplant & Almond Butter Tofu Bowls

This dish makes for a meal to remember! The sweetness of the eggplant blends impeccably with the creaminess of the almond butter and tofu. 

It’s delicious with steamed rice, but you can eat it on its own as well.

14. Vegan Unagi Don (Eggplant)

This recipe is a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet.

The eggplant is marinated in an umami sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake. Top it with a variety of vegetables for a refreshing crunch to each bite.

15. Grilled Japanese Eggplant Salad With Lime and Chilli Dressing

This recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled eggplant with the zing of lime and the heat of chili pepper. It’s full of flavor and has an extra kick!

Serve this salad as a side dish for grilled meats or fish, and prepare to be impressed.

16. Japanese Eggplant and Tomato Curry

The flavors of the curry sauce meld together perfectly. It has a balance of creamy sauce mix, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic spices. 

The eggplant adds a unique texture and flavor that sets this dish apart from traditional curries. Serve it with steaming white rice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness.

17. Teriyaki Tofu and Eggplant

This teriyaki tofu and eggplant is guaranteed to satisfy. The savory teriyaki sauce perfectly complements the soft and tender tofu and eggplant beautifully.

The subtle sweetness of the sauce also helps to cut through the richness of the tofu and eggplant.

18. Japanese Sweet Miso Eggplant and Carrots

The preparation of this dish is fairly simple. You just need a quick stir and a short time in the pan. 

It’s perfect for a side or main course and can be served with a range of different options. Pair it with sticky rice and green tea for an authentic Japanese experience.

19. Filipino Eggplant Omelette (Tortang Talong) 

This yummy Filipino dish is an upgrade to your standard omelette breakfast!

It’s a simple yet flavorful meal made with roasted eggplant, beaten eggs, garlic, pepper, and seasonings. Serve it with a side of vinegar dipping sauce for a little tang.

20. Japanese Eggplant With Sticky Sauce and Rice

This eggplant with sticky sauce is a true flavor sensation.The savory notes of the eggplant blend perfectly with the subtle sweetness of the sauce.

And to top it off, the warm rice serves as the perfect base to soak up all the mouth-watering flavors.

21. Eggplant and Potato Curry (Aloo Bainga)

If you’re a fan of curries, you’ll love this eggplant and potato version! The flavors work so well together, and it’s hearty and satisfying.

The eggplant and potato create a great base for the dish, while the spices and herbs really bring it to life. 

22. Grilled Eggplant With Asian Marinade

The marinade is a beautiful blend of sauces and aromatics that add a sweet and savory flavor. 

The texture of the grilled eggplant is also a delight. It has a slightly crispy exterior and a soft and tender interior.

23. Japanese Eggplant and Pork Ginger Garlic Soy Stir-Fry 

The stir-fry is versatile and can be served alongside steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. 

If you prefer to skip the pork, substitute it with ground beef, chicken, or tofu for a vegetarian version.

24. Japanese Eggplant with Roasted Tomatoes, Crispy Chickpeas, Goat Cheese and Marjoram

As a food enthusiast, I always search for recipes that result in a visually stunning dish. The crunchiness of the chickpeas paired with the earthiness of the goat cheese is irresistible. 

And the herbaceousness of the marjoram makes for a delectable culinary experience.

25. Shrimp Shishito Eggplant Stir-Fry

If you like to experiment with various recipes and flavors, then this is the recipe for you.

The combination of succulent shrimp and tender eggplant pairs perfectly with the spicy and smoky flavor of shishito peppers.