Tips: Mint is a popular herb in Middle Eastern cooking. It is a useful herb to grow yourself as it can be added to a variety of dishes, particularly salads and vegetable dishes. It can be grown easily in a garden or window box.

Prep Time: 5-10 min, plus 30 min standing
Cook Time: about 30 min

Yield:4

1. Using a sharp knife, cut the eggplants into cubes. Put them into a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let stand for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly under cold running water and drain well. This process removes all the bitter juices from the eggplants.
   
   
2. Pat dry with paper towels.
   
   
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet and saute the eggplants, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
   
   
4. Stir in the garlic and onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
   
   
5. Stir in the tomatoes, mint, and stock, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
   
   
6. Stir in the sugar, vinegar, and dried chili flakes, season to taste with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Garnish the eggplants with mint sprigs and serve.