Aloo Bangun (Potato Aubergine Curry)
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Rating: 3.4 stars from 91 votes
Views: 98,155
Description:
Aloo Bangun, a flavorful and comforting vegetarian curry, combines the wholesome goodness of potatoes (aloo) and aubergines (bangun), cooked in a fragrant, aromatic masala sauce. This traditional dish is lightly spiced and offers a balance of textures and flavors—soft, melt-in-the-mouth vegetables enveloped in a rich, tangy, and spicy sauce. Perfect for a warming meal, this curry is best served with rice or flatbreads such as naan or roti.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Aubergines (eggplant) | 2, cut into 3cm lengths |
| Potatoes | 2, peeled and cut into 3cm lengths |
| Mustard oil | 2 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Onion | 1, finely sliced |
| Tomatoes (canned or fresh) | 200g / ½ tin |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Fresh chili, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped | A handful |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Base:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of mustard oil in a wok or karahi over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds to the hot oil. Once they start to sizzle and pop, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Fry the seeds for a few seconds until they become aromatic and release their fragrance. -
Cook the Onions:
Add 1 finely sliced onion to the pan and sauté until it softens and turns golden brown. Stir frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn, and cook it until it’s nicely caramelized for a richer flavor. -
Make the Masala Paste:
Lower the heat slightly and add 200g (half a tin) of tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, and the finely chopped chili. Stir in 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Cook the mixture for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the onions and tomatoes to meld together into a thick, fragrant masala paste. -
Cook the Potatoes:
Once the masala base is ready, add the cubed potatoes to the pan and stir to coat them with the sauce. Reduce the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and let the potatoes cook for about 5 minutes. Add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too dry or sticks to the pan. -
Add the Aubergines:
Stir in the cubed aubergines and mix well to coat them in the masala sauce. Cover the pan again and let the curry simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables will soften and absorb the flavors of the sauce as they cook through. -
Final Touches:
Once the potatoes and aubergines are tender and fully cooked, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garam masala over the curry and give it a final stir. Garnish with a generous handful of freshly chopped coriander before serving. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delicious Aloo Bangun curry with steamed basmati rice, warm naan, or paratha for a satisfying meal. You can also pair it with a cooling yogurt-based raita to balance out the spices.
Allergen Information:
This dish is naturally free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, nuts, and eggs. However, those with mustard or sesame allergies should avoid this recipe as it contains mustard oil and mustard seeds.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This dish is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
- Gluten-Free: There are no gluten-containing ingredients, making it a safe choice for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free: No dairy is used in the preparation of this dish, making it ideal for those avoiding dairy products.
Cooking Tips & Advice:
- Aubergines: Aubergines can soak up oil quickly, so be sure to use a generous amount of mustard oil for cooking. If you’re concerned about the oil, you can reduce the amount slightly, but be aware that the flavor may change slightly.
- Potato Variations: If you’re looking for a more hearty or filling dish, consider adding a few more potatoes. You can also swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly different taste and nutritional profile.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: This curry is prepared with a medium spice level, but if you prefer it spicier, feel free to add an extra chili or a pinch of red chili powder. Conversely, if you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of chili used.
- Serving Suggestions: This curry pairs beautifully with naan, rice, or even a simple cucumber salad to balance out the spiciness.
Conclusion:
Aloo Bangun (Potato Aubergine Curry) is a delightful, vibrant, and wholesome dish that perfectly combines the earthiness of potatoes with the tender texture of aubergines. The mildly spiced masala, featuring turmeric, cumin, and garam masala, delivers a depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it for a casual family meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit in any home.
