Ingredients
8 small to medium-sized eggplants (brinjals)
2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
For the stuffing:
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
2 tablespoons desiccated coconut
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, roasted
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
1 teaspoon dried mango powder (amchur)
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Eggplants:
Wash the eggplants and slit them vertically, keeping the stems intact. Make two perpendicular slits, forming a “+” shape, without cutting through.
Soak the eggplants in salted water for about 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed peanuts, desiccated coconut, roasted sesame seeds, fennel seeds, dried mango powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
Stuff the Eggplants:
Gently stuff each eggplant with the prepared mixture. Ensure the stuffing is evenly distributed among all the eggplants.
Cooking:
Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears.
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and the oil starts to separate.
Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the masala until the oil separates from it.
Add Stuffed Eggplants:
Carefully place the stuffed eggplants into the pan. Coat them with the masala mixture. Cover the pan and let them cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the eggplants are tender.
Garnish and Serve:
Once the eggplants are cooked, garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with roti or rice.
In every bite of Bharwa Baingan, one experiences the warmth of spices, the crunch of peanuts, and the delightful tenderness of eggplants. This dish is a testament to the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine, offering a delightful journey for the senses. Whether served with roti or rice, Bharwa Baingan is a culinary masterpiece that has the power to transport diners to the heart of traditional Indian kitchens. Embrace the art of stuffing and slow cooking as you embark on the culinary adventure of creating this timeless dish, bringing the authentic flavors of India to your dining table.