Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, dark soy sauce (or additional soy sauce), vegetarian oyster sauce, rice vinegar and maple syrup until combined. In a separate small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and cold water. Set both aside.

Step 2

Cook the Eggplant: Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the eggplant and toss to coat in the oil. Spread the pieces evenly around the pan in one layer. Sprinkle a little water over the eggplant, cover and cook for 2-3 minutes, flip the pieces and sprinkle with a little more water, cover and cook another 2 minutes. Remove the lid and stir fry until the eggplant is golden brown. It should be tender but still holding its shape. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.

Step 3

Stir Fry Peppers & Onions: Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil over medium-high. Add onions and peppers. Cook for 5-6 min, stirring often, until tender-crisp.

Step 4

Add Aromatics: Add garlic, ginger and Thai chili. Cook for 1 min, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 5

To the pan, add the sauce and cornstarch slurry, making sure to re-mix the slurry as the cornstarch will have settled to the bottom.

Step 6

Add Eggplant and Thai Basil: Bring to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium. Add eggplant to the pan. Cook for another 2 minutes stirring often, until slightly reduced, saucy and eggplant absorbs some of the sauce. Turn off the heat and stir in the Thai basil.

Step 7

Serve Thai basil eggplant over your choice of rice. Garnish with more Thai basil, if desired.