Braised Eggplant, Pork and Mushrooms

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Trim off the stem ends from the eggplant. If using Asian eggplant, slice into 2-inch lengths, and then cut lengthwise into ½-inch-thick wedges. If using globe eggplant, cut into ½-inch cubes. In a small bowl, mix the wine, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, pepper and ⅔ cup of water.

2. Step 2

   Place a wok or a large frying pan over high heat. When the pan is hot, after about 1 minute, add 1 tablespoon of the oil and rotate the pan to spread. Add the pork, and stir-fry until it has broken into small chunks and is lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, chilies and eggplant; stir-fry until the eggplant begins to brown, 2 to 3 minutes. 3. Add the water mixture. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is soft when pressed, 7 to 9 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms, and remove from the heat. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with cilantro. Note: Slender Chinese or Japanese eggplants hold their shape better and are less seedy than larger, more common globe eggplants.