Turai Baingan Ki Sabzi (Eggplant & Ridge Gourd Curry)
This Turai Baingan Ki Sabzi is a simple yet flavorful vegetarian dish from the Parsi cuisine, combining the rich flavors of eggplant (brinjal) and ridge gourd (turai) with a blend of aromatic spices. A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, this dish pairs beautifully with moong dal, millet phulka, and a side of cauliflower and cucumber raita for a wholesome meal.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Parsi
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Small Brinjal (Baingan / Eggplant) | 6, sliced into roundels |
| Ridge Gourd (Turai / Peerkangai) | 1, peeled and sliced into roundels |
| Onion | 1, thinly sliced |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Dhansak Masala (freshly prepared) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables
- Begin by soaking the sliced brinjal (eggplant) in salted water to prevent discoloration. Set aside.
- Peel and slice the ridge gourd into roundels.
-
-
Cook the Brinjal (Eggplant)
- Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced brinjal and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Roast the brinjal until it becomes tender and slightly golden. You can cover the pan while cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
-
Prepare Dhansak Masala
- If you don’t have ready-made Dhansak masala, you can make it fresh using the recipe provided in the link. Once prepared, set aside.
-
Saute the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, heat a bit more oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped garlic and sliced onions. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and sauté until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
-
Cook the Ridge Gourd (Turai)
- Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the prepared Dhansak masala to the pan, followed by the sliced ridge gourd (turai).
- Season with salt, amchur powder, and turmeric powder.
- Cover the pan and let the ridge gourd cook. It will release a lot of water, so there’s no need to add additional water.
-
Combine the Brinjal and Ridge Gourd
- Once the ridge gourd is cooked and tender, add the roasted brinjal (eggplant) to the pan.
- Stir gently to combine the brinjal with the ridge gourd and spice mixture.
-
Add Jaggery for a Sweet Balance
- Stir in the jaggery to balance out the tangy and savory flavors of the dish.
- Taste and adjust the salt and spices as needed.
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Finishing Touches
- Once everything is well mixed and cooked, turn off the heat.
- Stir in some fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the Turai Baingan Ki Sabzi to a serving bowl and serve hot.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with moong dal, millet phulka, and a refreshing side of cauliflower & cucumber raita.
Tips for Perfect Turai Baingan Ki Sabzi
- Roasting the Brinjal: To prevent the brinjal from becoming too soggy, ensure that it is roasted until soft and golden. You can also grill it for a smoky flavor.
- Adjusting the Sweetness: The jaggery adds a subtle sweetness to the sabzi. Feel free to adjust the quantity based on your preference for sweetness.
- Spice Variations: If you enjoy a bit more heat, add a pinch of red chili powder or finely chopped green chilies along with the garlic and onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150-180 kcal |
| Protein | ~2 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~35 g |
| Fiber | ~7 g |
| Fat | ~7 g |
| Sodium | ~250 mg |
| Potassium | ~450 mg |
| Sugars | ~9 g |
Conclusion
Turai Baingan Ki Sabzi is an aromatic, healthy, and satisfying vegetarian dish that blends the goodness of eggplant and ridge gourd with traditional Parsi spices. The combination of tangy amchur, earthy turmeric, and a touch of sweetness from jaggery makes this dish truly special. Whether you’re a fan of Parsi cuisine or just looking for a delicious new recipe, this sabzi is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it with a simple dal, roti, or even as a side dish with rice for a wholesome meal.
