Step 1

Cover both sides of eggplant slices with a sprinkling of salt. Let sit in a colander over a bowl for about an hour to drain the excess liquid. Rinse off salt and pat eggplant dry.

Step 2

Put eggplant slices on a baking sheet covered in parchment paper or foil. Brush each side lightly with olive oil and roast in a 400-degree oven to 40-50 minutes, flipping halfway, until fork-tender. Set aside to cool.

Step 3

While eggplant is roasting, make the almond butter sauce: Put almond butter, hummus, sugar, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, chili oil/flakes, lime juice, and salt in a food processor or blender. Blend. Then, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you get a thick yet slightly runny sauce. (You may not need the entire 1/4 cup of water.)

Step 4

Plate eggplant slices and spoon sauce over top. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.