A method for enantioselective direct α-amination reaction catalyzed by a sterically "frustrated" Lewis acid/Brønsted base complex is disclosed. Cooperative functioning of the Lewis acid and Brønsted base components gives rise to in situ enolate generation from monocarbonyl compounds. Subsequent reaction with hydrogen-bond activated dialkyl azodicarboxylates delivers α-aminocarbonyl compounds in high enantiomeric purity.