Garlic Eggplant & Shrimp Stir-Fry with Scallion and Cashews

1. Prepare the Sauce

Begin by whisking together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. This blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, dry sherry, sugar, sesame oil, vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes will create a rich and savory base for your stir-fry.

2. Marinate the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, the minced garlic, and salt. Let the shrimp marinate for about 30 minutes. This step allows the shrimp to absorb the flavors, making them extra delicious when cooked.

3. Prepare the Scallion Mix

While the shrimp marinates, prepare the scallion mix by combining the sliced garlic, scallion whites, and cashews in a small bowl. This will be added to the stir-fry later to lend a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor.

4. Cook the Eggplant

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the eggplant. Cook the eggplant, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly browned and tender, which should take about 3 to 6 minutes. Then add the scallion greens and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the cooked eggplant and scallion greens to a plate and set them aside.

5. Cook the Scallion Whites Mix

In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat. Add the scallion whites mixture and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

6. Cook the Shrimp

Reduce the heat to medium-high, then add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 1 to 1.5 minutes.

7. Thicken the Sauce

Stir the sauce mixture one more time to ensure the cornstarch is fully incorporated, then pour it into the skillet with the shrimp. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. The high heat will help thicken the sauce quickly and coat the shrimp evenly.

8. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked eggplant and scallion greens to the skillet. Toss everything together until the vegetables and shrimp are well coated with the sauce.