Step 1: Grill the Aubergine
Begin by brushing the aubergine with a touch of oil. You can use a long and thin Asian aubergine if available; otherwise, a regular aubergine will work just as well. Grill the aubergine until the skin is nicely charred. You can do this in an oven for about 25 minutes or, for a more authentic touch, roast it over an open flame.
Step 2: Peel and Cool
Allow the grilled aubergine to cool slightly. Once it's at a manageable temperature, peel the skin while keeping the stem intact. This step is vital for the signature Tortang Talong appearance.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, beat the eggs and combine them with the soy sauce (or fish sauce), a pinch of black pepper, and sesame seeds. Mix these ingredients well.
Step 4: Dip and Coat
Gently dip the peeled aubergine into the egg mixture, ensuring it's thoroughly coated. The sesame seeds will add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
Step 5: Pan-Fry
Heat one tablespoon of neutral vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the egg-coated aubergine. Pour any extra egg mixture over the aubergine in the pan. Allow it to pan-fry for a few minutes on each side until it turns a beautiful golden color.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Tortang Talong on a bed of rice. Sprinkle some additional sesame seeds and garnish with fresh spring onions. For an extra kick, you can spoon over some chili oil for a deliciously spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Tortang Talong is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it over a bed of cooked rice, which complements the smoky and savory flavors wonderfully. Garnish the dish with fresh spring onions for a touch of color and an extra layer of freshness.