Learn how to make Baingan Bharta, a flavorful Indian dish featuring smoky and spiced roasted eggplant mash. Follow our step-by-step recipe to create this delicious vegetarian dish, perfect as a side or main course. Enjoy the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, blended with aromatic spices, and served with naan or rice for a satisfying meal.
Introduction:
Baingan Bharta is a classic Indian dish that showcases the versatility of eggplant. It is a flavorful mash made by roasting eggplant until it becomes soft and smoky, and then combining it with a blend of spices and aromatics. Baingan Bharta is a popular vegetarian dish enjoyed across India and beyond. The combination of roasted eggplant, spices, and herbs creates a delightful medley of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Join us as we guide you through the process of making Baingan Bharta, allowing you to recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen. Get ready to savor the smoky and spiced goodness of this roasted eggplant mash, paired perfectly with naan bread or steamed rice.
Recipe Overview:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
1 large eggplant (baingan)
2 tablespoons oil (preferably mustard oil)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
2 green chilies, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Roasting the Eggplant:
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Prick the eggplant with a fork or a knife at multiple places.
• Rub the eggplant with a little oil.
• Place the eggplant on a baking sheet and roast it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the skin is charred and the eggplant becomes soft.
• Remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool.Preparing the Bharta:
• Once the roasted eggplant is cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skin and discard it.
• Mash the roasted eggplant using a fork or a potato masher until it becomes a coarse pulp. Set it aside.Cooking the Bharta:
• Heat oil in a pan or a kadai over medium heat.
• Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
• Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
• Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
• Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
• Cook the spice mixture for a few minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
• Add the mashed eggplant to the pan and mix well with the masala.
• Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.Garnishing and Serving:
• Remove the pan from heat and garnish the Baingan Bharta with fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve hot Baingan Bharta with naan bread or steamed rice.
• Squeeze some lemon juice on top for an extra tangy kick.
Conclusion:
Baingan Bharta is a delightful dish that brings out the smoky and spiced flavors of roasted eggplant. With our easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate this traditional Indian dish in your own kitchen. Enjoy the rich and aromatic blend of spices, complemented by the soft and smoky texture of the mashed eggplant. Whether you serve it as a side dish or as a main course, Baingan Bharta is sure to impress your family and friends. Experience the joy of savoring this smoky and spiced roasted eggplant mash, and elevate your dining experience with the authentic flavors of India.