Baingan Bharta (Smoked Eggplant Mash)

Here’s a recipe for Baingan Bharta, a flavorful Indian dish made with roasted and mashed eggplant, cooked with aromatic spices, tomatoes, and onions. It’s a delicious plant-based dish often paired with roti or rice. 🌿✨

Baingan Bharta (Smoked Eggplant Mash)

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants (aubergines)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or mustard oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Roast the Eggplant

1. Wash the eggplants and pierce them a few times with a fork.
2. Roast the eggplants directly over an open flame (or in a 450°F/230°C oven) until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft, about 10–15 minutes. Turn frequently for even roasting.
3. Let the roasted eggplants cool slightly, then peel off the charred skin. Mash the flesh with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Masala

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chili. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, ground coriander, and chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes break down and form a thick masala base, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine the Eggplant

1. Add the mashed eggplant to the skillet and mix well with the masala.
2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld. Adjust salt to taste.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the Baingan Bharta with fresh cilantro.
2. Serve warm with roti, naan, or steamed rice.

Tips & Variations:

• Add a smoky touch: Place a hot charcoal piece in the cooked dish, drizzle with a little oil, and cover for a few minutes to infuse smoky flavor.
• Customize spices: Add garam masala or amchur (dried mango powder) for extra depth.
• Make it rich: Stir in a spoonful of vegan yogurt for a creamy finish.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

This Baingan Bharta recipe captures the smoky, spiced flavors of Indian cuisine, making it a comforting and versatile dish for any meal! 🌿✨