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Hi! I’m Kate, the face behind KateFi.com—a blog all about making life easier and more affordable.
Short on time and cash? This Budget-Friendly Eggplant Stir Fry is here to save the day (and dinner). It’s fast, flavorful, and totally affordable—all while being gloriously meat-free. Whether you’re trying to stretch your grocery budget or just want a quick veggie-packed meal, this stir fry is your new go-to.
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Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry
- 15 minutes from start to finish
- Vegan and budget-friendly
- Perfect for using up fridge veggies
- Great with rice or noodles
- Sweet, savory, and garlicky
Ingredients (Feeds 2-3)
| Ingredient | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eggplant (1 large) | $1.50 | Cut into bite-sized cubes |
| Garlic (3 cloves) | $0.10 | Minced |
| Soy Sauce (3 tbsp) | $0.20 | Adds umami richness |
| Brown Sugar (1 tbsp) | $0.05 | Balances the salty sauce |
| Vinegar (1 tbsp) | $0.05 | Rice vinegar or apple cider |
| Cornstarch (1 tsp) | $0.05 | Optional, for thickening |
| Green Onion (2 stalks) | $0.25 | Sliced for topping |
| Cooking Oil (2 tbsp) | $0.10 | For sautéing |
| Optional Chili Flakes | $0.05 | For some heat |
Total Estimated Cost: ~$2.35 for 2-3 servings
Quick Steps
1. Prep the Eggplant: Dice and lightly salt your eggplant. Let sit for 5 minutes and pat dry. This helps reduce bitterness.
2. Stir Fry Time: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok. Add eggplant and sauté until softened and slightly browned (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Add Flavor: Toss in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then add soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch mixed with a little water. Stir well.
4. Finish It Off: Let the sauce thicken slightly. Add green onions and chili flakes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Make It a Meal
Serve it with a side of Savory Oatmeal with Eggs & Spinach or pair it with a cozy bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup for an even heartier feast.
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Final Bite
This eggplant stir fry is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours of cooking to make something crave-worthy. It’s quick, cheap, and seriously delicious. Pin it, share it, and make it on repeat!
Want more budget dinners? Browse through our One-Pan Cajun Chicken & Rice or the classic Creamy Garlic Ramen and eat well for less.
