Instructions: This dish is supposed to be hot (ie spicy), and derives its "signature"

from the combinations of the relatively bland squid, the egg-plants, and the hot curry flavorings.

The egg plant used should, ideally, be the Thai cariant known as makheua If you cannot find it, then use a western (purple) eggplant/aubergine, cut into small dice. Note that the cooking time will vary, and you should not cook the aubergine longer than necesary (they should still be firm and have a slight resistance to the bite).

METHOD:
briefly sautee the garlic in a little hot oil in a wok until it starts to turn golden brown, then add the curry paste and stir fry until aromatic.

Reduce the heat to medium low, and add the squid, mixing and stirring briefly, then add the remaining ingredients (except the basil), and stir briskly until the squid is just cooked through (it cooks quickly - do not overcook or it will go rubbery).

Transfer to a serving plate, garnish and serve with steamed rice.

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