Baingan Bharta

baingan_bharta

Baingan Bharta, an Indian vegetarian dish, is a delicious mix of roasted, mashed brinjals (aubergines) mixed with aromatic spices and herbs. It is a popular dish in North India but is now enjoyed all over the world.

The dish has a rich history, with several versions of it existing in different regions of India. It is said to have been first created by the Punjabi farmers who would cook the roasted brinjal and mix it with basic spices and herbs. Over time, the recipe has evolved and chefs have added their own unique blends to the dish.

The taste of the dish is unique, with the smoky flavour of roasted aubergines mingling with spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric and chilli. The dish also contains ginger, garlic and onions which gives the dish an extra kick of flavour.

Not only is Baingan Bharta delicious, it is also healthy. Aubergines are rich in fibre, antioxidants and vitamins, while the spices provide additional health benefits. For vegetarians, it is a great source of protein since it contains dal (lentils) which are a staple food in India.

The preparation of Baingan Bharta is simple, but the cooking process is important. The first step is to roast the aubergines, either over a gas flame, in the oven or on a barbecue. The aubergines should be roasted until the skin is blackened and the flesh is fully cooked. Once the aubergines have cooled, the skin should be peeled off and the flesh mashed until it is soft and almost pureed in texture.

In a separate pan, onions and tomatoes are sautéed in oil or ghee (clarified butter) until they are caramelized and flavorful. Next, the spices are added, followed by the mashed aubergine. To ensure that the dish has the perfect texture and consistency, the mixture should be cooked on low heat for several minutes, stirring occasionally.

The dish can be served with Indian flatbreads such as naan, roti or paratha, or with rice. To add a bit of freshness, a side salad made of cucumbers, tomatoes and onions can be served with it.

Baingan Bharta is a delicious and healthy vegetarian option that is enjoyed by Indians as well as people all over the world. The dish has a deep, rich flavour and a complex blend of spices which makes it a favourite among those who enjoy Indian cuisine. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and its simple recipe makes it a popular choice for home cooks and chefs alike.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon minced ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Pierce eggplants all over with a fork.
  3. Roast eggplants on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes, or until they are soft and wrinkled. Let cool.
  4. Peel the skin off the eggplant and discard it. Roughly mash the flesh with a fork.
  5. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until it is lightly golden.
  6. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt to the pan. Stir for a minute.
  7. Add the chopped tomato and cook until it is softened, about 5 minutes.
  8. Add eggplant and cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until flavors are blended.
  9. Stir in chopped cilantro leaves and lemon juice.
  10. Serve hot with rice or naan.