Poqui Poqui made of roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and eggs. Healthy, filling, and delicious, it’s a meatless breakfast or dinner meal the whole family will love.
Although my hometown, Tarlac, is known to be a melting pot of dialects and cuisine, I’ve never heard, much less tried, poqui poqui until a former co-worker of mine brought it for lunch one day. I took one sample bite from the small Tupperware she offered everyone in the breakroom, and I was hooked!
What is Poqui Poqui
Poqui poqui is a vegetable dish made of eggplants sauteed in onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and finished off with beaten eggs. It originated from the Ilocos region where it’s commonly served for breakfast with steamed rice or as a side dish to grilled fish or fried meat for lunch.
I admit it’s not the most appealing to look at, but boy is it delicious! With simple ingredients and quick prep, you’ll be surprised how the aroma and flavor of roasted eggplants come together beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and fluffy eggs!
Tips on How to Make Poqui Poqui
- Although the grill or gas stove provides a quicker way to roast eggplants, you can also roast them in the oven with less tending. Arrange the eggplants on a foil-lined baking sheet in a single layer, lightly brush with oil, and pierce a few times with a fork. Roast in 400 F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes or until softened.
- Whisk the eggs very well to aerate and add volume to the eggs, creating lighter and fluffier curds. The beaten eggs should be of uniform yellow color, with the whites and yolks completely incorporated together.
- Turn off the heat while the eggs are still slightly wet as they will continue to cook with the residual heat from the pan.
- I use salt to season the dish, but you can also use fish sauce or bagoong isda.
Give this roasted eggplant dish a try. Not only is it delicious and filling, but it’s also healthy and budget-friendly! Want more eggplant recipes? Try this eggplant and tomato torta!
