Balsamic Eggplant and Peppers

Most eggplant recipes you see are for baked, roasted, deep-fried, or steamed eggplant. Why is this? Because it generally takes a long time to cook, even if you're patient. This method involves frying, but with a covered lid. As long as the eggplant doesn't dry out, it should cook thoroughly.

3-5 Japanese eggplants, sliced in 3/4" diagonal cut pieces
1 red bell pepper, 1/4" lengthwise slices
1 green bell pepper, 1/4" lengthwise slices
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 tbsp. olive oil
1/4 c. chicken/vegetable/beef broth or water
slivers of green onion for garnish (optional)
dash of salt, to taste

Sauce:
3 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp. soy sauce
2 tsp. sugar

1. Stir-fry red and green bell peppers with the oil and the garlic about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Stir-fry eggplant until lightly browned. Turn heat down to medium and simmer with 1/4 c. broth covered until eggplant is soft. About 30 minutes.

3. Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl until the sugar has dissolved.

4. Once the eggplant is just about done, add the sauce and stir until the eggplant is coated. Add the peppers back in and fry for 1-2 more minutes.

5. Remove from heat. Garnish with slivers of green onion.