Badanekaayi Gojju Recipe (South Karnataka Style)
Badanekaayi Gojju, also known as “Brinjal Curry,” is a flavorful and tangy dish from South Karnataka, made with tender brinjals stuffed with a spice mixture and simmered in a rich, roasted peanut-coconut gravy. The addition of tamarind and jaggery balances the spices beautifully, creating a dish that’s perfect for pairing with Lachha Paratha or Gourd Raita. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to recreate this delicious recipe at home.
Ingredients for Badanekaayi Gojju Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (Eggplants) | 10 medium-sized |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Mustard seeds (Rai) | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 4 tbsp |
| Fresh green coriander | For garnish |
| Roasted peanuts | 2 tbsp |
| Grated coconut | 1/4 cup |
| Tamarind paste | 2 tbsp |
| Dry red chilies | 2 |
| Cumin seeds | 2 tbsp |
| Red chili powder | 1 tbsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tbsp |
| Jaggery | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Karnataka
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Badanekaayi Gojju
-
Prep the Brinjals
Wash the brinjals (eggplants) thoroughly. Make straight and diagonal cuts into each brinjal, but ensure they remain intact. The idea is to create pockets within the brinjals where the spice mixture will be stuffed. -
-
Prepare the Spice Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Fill the cuts in each brinjal with this spice mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Set the stuffed brinjals aside. -
Make the Ground Paste
In a mixer grinder, add grated coconut, roasted peanuts, tamarind paste, dry red chilies, and a little water. Grind everything into a smooth paste. This will form the base of the gravy, adding a rich texture and flavor to the dish. -
Heat Oil and Temper
Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a deep frying pan or kadai. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Once the mustard seeds pop, add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they turn soft and translucent. This forms a fragrant base for your curry. -
Cook the Stuffed Brinjals
Now, add the stuffed brinjals to the pan. Stir gently to coat them with the onions and oil. Add the remaining spice mixture from Step 2 and mix everything together. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 20-25 minutes on low-medium heat, or until the brinjals are three-quarters cooked through. -
Simmer with Ground Paste
Once the brinjals are nearly cooked, add the freshly ground paste (from Step 3) to the pan along with 1 cup of water. Stir well, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Final Adjustments
After the curry has simmered, add jaggery (to taste) and salt if needed. Stir well, cover the pan again, and cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. -
Garnish and Serve
Once the curry is ready, garnish with crushed roasted peanuts and fresh green coriander leaves. This adds a delightful crunch and freshness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Badanekaayi Gojju
Serve your Badanekaayi Gojju hot with Lachha Paratha or Gourd Raita for a complete and satisfying meal. The rich and tangy flavors of the Gojju, combined with the softness of paratha or the cooling effect of raita, make for an incredible South Karnataka-style lunch or dinner.
Tips for the Perfect Badanekaayi Gojju
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Brinjal Selection: Choose medium-sized, firm brinjals for this recipe. They should not be overripe or too soft as they will break apart while cooking.
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Adjust Spice Levels: You can adjust the quantity of red chili powder and dry red chilies based on your preferred spice level. If you like it spicier, feel free to increase the chili content.
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Coconut and Peanuts: Roasting the peanuts beforehand enhances their flavor, so make sure to roast them to a nice golden brown for a richer taste in the curry.
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Sweetness Balance: The jaggery provides a mild sweetness that balances the tanginess of the tamarind. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250-300 kcal |
| Protein | ~5g |
| Carbohydrates | ~18g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~300-400mg |
Badanekaayi Gojju is a delicious vegetarian dish that brings together the richness of peanuts, the tanginess of tamarind, and the deep flavors of South Karnataka spices. It’s a dish that pairs beautifully with flatbreads and yogurt-based side dishes, perfect for your next family meal or festive occasion. Enjoy this hearty, wholesome curry that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
