Tortang Talong, known as Filipino Eggplant Omelet, is a famous and beloved dish in the Philippines. This dish is made by grilling or pan-frying eggplants with omelet eggs until the outside of the omelet is golden brown and crispy. At the same time, the core remains soft and creamy.
Tortang Talong is not only delicious but also has many health benefits. Eggplants are rich in vitamins C, K, and B12. These vitamins help support the digestive system, prevent cancer growth, and enhance bone strength while nourishing brain development. Like eggplant, the egg is an excellent protein and Vitamin D source.
In this article, I’ll share some easy-to-prepare recipes helping you make unique Filipino Eggplant Omelet dishes.
Ingredients and Tools
The following are the ingredients and tools you will need to make a Filipino Eggplant Omelet. They are simple; you can easily find them in supermarkets or grocery stores.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Eggplants: The essential ingredient in this recipe is the eggplant. The one we suggested was purple, but you can use any eggplant that you have. It’s best to use a vegetable that is not too ripe or large, so it will be easier to cook and more flavorful.
Egg: The second critical ingredient is the fresh egg. The best type of egg you can use is a whole regular egg, but if you are vegan or vegetarian, you can use an egg substitute instead.
Cooking oil: You can use vegetables, olive, avocado, or coconut oil.
Aromatics: Use fresh garlic or dried garlic powder or granules instead.
Seasonings: Fish sauce, salt, and pepper.
Prepare some other ingredients in your omelet, including green onions, bell peppers, carrots, peas, corn kernels, or whatever else you want!
Tools and equipment needed
You will also need essential kitchen tools, such as a large mixing bowl, a whisk, a frying pan, a spatula, a knife, and a cutting board. And if you want to cook easier, faster, and healthier, let’s prepare modern kitchen equipment like an air fryer or electric oven. Ensuring all the tools are clean and dry before cooking is vital.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Filipino Eggplant Omelet
Here, we listed the Philippines’ three most common cooking methods: Traditional Stovetop Method, Air Fryer Method, and Electric Oven Method. Following our recipes below, you can make your homemade version of this classic Filipino dish.
Traditional Stovetop Method
Step 1: Use a fork to create tiny holes all over the eggplants. Putting the eggplants in a layer and holding them over a burner on medium-high heat, flip them once or twice while cooking until they are soft, porous, and blackened on all sides, about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Let the eggplants cool down and discard the skins, and use a fork to flatten the flesh gently.
Step 3: Put the eggs in a bowl. Beat well and season with salt, pepper, and garlic or garlic powder.
Step 4: Dip the eggplants in the beaten egg mixture, letting them soak for a second or two so that they are well covered with egg. Then put them in an oil boiling pan.
Step 5: Cook on each side until browned and crispy (roughly 4 to 5 minutes total). Transfer eggplants to a paper towel-lined plate, let drain briefly and serve.
Air Fryer Method
I’m not a big fan of frying in oil or butter because I think it adds unnecessary calories to food. That’s why I love using my air fryer for making eggplant omelets!
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to about 190°C (375°F).
Step 2: Cut the eggplants into slices and create tiny holes in slices with a fork.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together two eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 4: Dip the eggplant slices into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the battered eggplant slices in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Dip the cooked eggplant slices into the beaten egg mixture again and return them to the air fryer basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the egg is set and the omelet is heated.
Electric Oven Method
Filipino Eggplant Omelet is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. One of my favorite cooking methods is using an electric oven. The roasting process will bring out the natural sweetness of the eggplant and make it less bitter.
Step 1: Preheat the oven to around 205°C (400°F).
Step 2: Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, place them on a baking sheet, and cut side up.
Step 3: Roast the eggplants until their flesh is soft and tender, 25-30 minutes. Using a fork, gently flatten the eggplants.
Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic. Dip the mashed eggplants into the batter and coat them evenly.
Step 5: Place coated eggplants into the oven and bake for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown is cooked.
Variations and Tips
There are several tips and variations you can try to make the Tortang Talong dish healthier and more flavorful, such as:
- The tip for the best eggplants is to choose small to medium sizes, which are sweeter and less bitter than larger ones. Eggplant with wrinkled skin, blemishes, or discolorations should also be avoided.
- Add fish, chicken, pork, or beef to your Tortang Talong if you want to increase protein for your meal.
- Add other vegetables: Add some vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers to the eggplant mixture for flavor and nutrition.
- Add low-fat cheese: Adding cheese to the eggplant omelet can add richness and flavor. Feta, goat cheese, and queso fresco are all excellent options.
- Use whole wheat bread crumbs: Instead of regular bread crumbs, use whole wheat bread crumbs to increase the fiber content of the dish.
- Serve with a dipping sauce: Filipino Eggplant Omelet is traditionally served with one of two dipping sauces: vinegar or soy sauce. You can also serve it with spicy mayonnaise or aioli.
- Grill the eggplant: Instead of frying it, grill it to reduce the oil content and add a smoky flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making a delicious Filipino eggplant omelet or Tortang Talong is easier than it may seem. With our help of a few simple steps, you can make a delicious dish that will satisfy your taste buds at any time of day.
With its rich cultural significance and numerous health benefits, Tortang Talong is a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the flavors of Filipino cuisine. So, what are you waiting for? Get your favorite pan, start cooking, and share your dishes with me in the comment!
Leave a Reply