Aubergine Grain Bowl in sweet and sour

Prep everything first: chop the aromatics, measure the sweet and sour elements, and pat the aubergine dry so it colours well.

Warm the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat and soften the onion and garlic until sweet and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the aubergine and sear until it takes on colour and the edges catch, 4 to 6 minutes.

Stir in the sichuan peppercorns and the rest of the sweet and sour flavours, letting them cook out for a minute until fragrant.

Add the carrots along with a splash of stock or water, then cook briskly until everything is tender and the sauce clings.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper and a little acid. It should taste bright, savoury and balanced.