Which food, when you eat it, instantly transports you to childhood?

There’s something about the smell of broiled eggplants and the warmth of a sizzling pan that instantly takes me back to my childhood — straight to my grandmother’s kitchen.

She was the best cook I’ve ever known. She didn’t need recipes or timers. Just her instincts, love, and a deep connection to food passed down through generations. One of the dishes I remember most — one that still brings comfort to my heart — is Tortang Talong, the Filipino eggplant omelette.

It’s a humble dish. Just eggplant, eggs, seasoning, and oil. But in my grandmother’s hands, it was magic.

Now, I still make Tortang Talong — but with my own little twist. Instead of fresh garlic, I use garlic powder for convenience and a more subtle flavor. And instead of salt, I use liquid aminos — a gentler, umami-rich alternative that’s become a staple in my kitchen. It’s a small change, but one that reflects how I’ve grown into my own way of cooking, while still honoring what she taught me.

I broil or air-fry the eggplants until their skins are blistered and soft. Then I peel and flatten them with a fork, coat them in my seasoned egg mix, and fry them until the edges are crisp and golden. Just like she did. Only now — it’s also just like me.

Whenever I make this dish, it feels like a hug from my past. A reminder of quiet afternoons, steaming plates of rice, and the love that always simmered in her kitchen.

Recipes evolve, just like we do. We carry the memories, we make them our own. My version of Tortang Talong might be a little different — but at its heart, it’s still the same comforting dish my grandmother once made with so much love.

Here’s my personal recipe for Tortang Talong, a dish that brings me back to childhood and reminds me of my grandmother’s love. I’m so happy to share it with you. 💜