Mughlai Style Eggplant Simmered in Rich Tomato Curry (बैंगन मुसल्लम रेसिपी)
Mughlai cuisine is known for its indulgent and aromatic dishes, often rich in spices and flavors. One such dish is Baingan Mussallam, a classic vegetarian delight that combines tender eggplants with a creamy tomato curry. This Hyderabadi-inspired recipe brings out the delicate flavors of eggplant while enveloping them in a luscious tomato gravy, creating a sumptuous experience that pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads. Here’s how to make this hearty and flavorful Mughlai-style dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplant (Brinjal) | 1, cut into long pieces |
| Tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh cream | 1 tablespoon |
| Raisins | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh coriander (finely chopped) | 2 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For frying and cooking |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, minced |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Hyderabadi
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing all the ingredients for smooth cooking. Start by making tomato puree, and set it aside. Next, grind ginger, garlic, and onion into a fine paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle. -
-
Cook the Eggplants:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced eggplant pieces along with a pinch of salt. Cook the eggplant until it is golden brown and tender, ensuring it is cooked through. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside. -
Prepare the Curry Base:
In the same pan, add another teaspoon of oil if needed. Add the ginger, garlic, and onion paste. Sauté this mixture on low heat, stirring constantly, until the raw smell fades and the paste turns a golden color. -
Add Spices and Tomato Puree:
Now, add all the dry spices—turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir the spices into the paste for a minute to bloom the flavors. Then, pour in the tomato puree and cook this mixture on medium heat, letting it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the oil separates from the curry base. -
Combine Eggplants and Add Raisins:
Once the curry base is ready, add the cooked eggplant pieces to the pan. Add raisins and stir gently to coat the eggplant with the curry. Pour in the cream to add richness, and cook everything together for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. -
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or spices, as needed. Stir well to ensure the eggplant is fully coated with the tomato-based curry sauce. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the curry is ready, turn off the heat and garnish with finely chopped fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and color. -
Serving Suggestion:
Serve the rich and flavorful Baingan Mussallam hot with steamed rice, aromatic biryani, or flatbreads like naan or roti. Pair it with a refreshing bowl of raita to balance the spices.
Tips for the Perfect Baingan Mussallam
- Eggplant Choice: Choose medium to large-sized eggplants that are firm and not overly ripe. They should be free of blemishes and cuts for the best texture when cooked.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute fresh cream with yogurt or coconut cream for a different flavor profile.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder and garam masala to suit your taste.
- Raisin Substitution: If you prefer a less sweet curry, you can skip the raisins or substitute them with chopped dates or apricots for a more fruity twist.
This Mughlai-style Baingan Mussallam is a wonderful dish that combines the earthiness of eggplants with the richness of a tomato curry. Its delicate spices and creamy texture make it an ideal choice for a comforting lunch or dinner, bringing the essence of Hyderabadi Mughlai cuisine right into your home!
