Sichuan Fried Aubergines

Aubergines are delicious when fried in a light batter, which prevents too much oil penetrating the aubergines. They are then enlivened by what the Chinese call a ‘fish flavouring’ sauce, a non-fishy mixture of spices and seasonings normally used in the preparation of fish. Both the aubergines and the batter readily absorb the sauce. This sauce is not to be confused with the commercially bottled fish sauce widely used in Southeast Asian cooking. Try to buy Chinese aubergines as they have a m