Cool steamed eggplant with a garlicky dressing (Liang ban qie zi)

Liang ban qie zi is a traditional dish originating from Shanghai. The dish is usually made with a combination of eggplants, scallions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, oil, sugar, and Chinkiang vinegar. The eggplants are sliced and cut into bite-sized strips that are steamed in a steamer basket until tender.

The strips are piled in a serving dish and topped with garlic, scallions, and ginger. The oil is heated in a pan and ladled over the garlic, scallions, and ginger to create a sizzling effect. A mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar is poured over the eggplants and the dish is gently stirred before it's served as an appetizer.