Braised Japanese Eggplant

Maybe I had a debt to settle for the countless times I dismissed eggplant during my childhood. If so, I think I redeemed myself during my years of instructing plant-based classes, when I consistently featured dishes with eggplant to demonstrate braising techniques. While the eggplant remained a constant, I experimented extensively with options for seasonings, salt, and choices of braising liquid.

Much to my joy, this culinary exploration often received appreciation, even winning ove