Baingan Bharta Recipe – A Flavorful Punjabi Delight
Baingan Bharta is a quintessential Punjabi dish that combines the rich smoky flavors of roasted brinjal (eggplant) with a delightful blend of aromatic spices. The charred brinjal is mashed and cooked with ginger, green chilies, onions, and tomatoes, creating a delectable side dish that’s both flavorful and comforting. The addition of garam masala and coriander powder elevates its taste, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold and spicy dishes. Whether served with phulkas, rice, or dal, Baingan Bharta promises to be a hit at your dinner table.
Cuisine: Punjabi
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Baingan Bharta
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (Eggplant) | 1 medium-sized |
| Ginger | 2 inches, peeled and grated |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Green Chilli | 2, finely chopped |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Leaves (for garnish) | 2 sprigs, finely chopped |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 210mg |
Preparation Time
| Step | Time (in minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 25 minutes |
| Cooking | 35 minutes |
| Total | 60 minutes |
Instructions for Baingan Bharta
-
Roasting the Brinjal
Begin by turning on your gas stove. Place the brinjal directly on the flame using tongs. Roast the brinjal, turning it occasionally to ensure all sides are charred. Continue roasting for about 10 minutes, or until the skin begins to separate and the brinjal becomes soft and tender. Once done, set it aside to cool. After it has cooled down, carefully peel off the charred skin and mash the flesh with a fork. Set the mashed brinjal aside. -
-
Preparing the Masala Base
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the oil. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 10 seconds. Now, add the grated ginger and finely chopped onions. Sauté the mixture until the onions become soft and translucent, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. -
Cooking the Spices and Tomatoes
Next, add the chopped tomatoes, followed by turmeric powder, green chilies, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and red chili powder. Stir the ingredients well and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the spices to infuse into the mixture. -
Combining the Brinjal and Spices
Add the mashed brinjal to the pan, along with the butter and salt to taste. Mix everything together, ensuring that the brinjal is well-coated with the spice mixture. Reduce the flame and let the dish cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. -
Garnishing and Serving
Once cooked, turn off the gas and garnish the Baingan Bharta with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve this smoky and flavorful Baingan Bharta alongside Panchmel Dal, Palak Raita, and warm Phulkas for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Baingan Bharta is not just a side dish—it’s a celebration of the bold, smoky flavors that define Punjabi cuisine. The combination of roasted brinjal with aromatic spices makes it an irresistible option for both everyday meals and special gatherings. Try this recipe for a delightful culinary experience that brings the heart of Punjab right to your kitchen.
Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
