One Pot Vangi Bhath Recipe

A Traditional South Karnataka Eggplant and Rice Dish

Total Time: 30 mins
Preparation Time: 10 mins
Cooking Time: 20 mins
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Karnataka
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Vangi Bhath, a flavorful one-pot rice dish hailing from Karnataka, beautifully combines the rich aroma of roasted spices with the earthy taste of eggplant. This simple yet deeply satisfying recipe features rice and spices cooked with tender eggplant, creating a wholesome and aromatic meal. Serve it with tangy raita and crunchy papad for a complete traditional meal.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Powder

1. Roast the spices – Heat a pan over medium flame and add the white urad dal, chana dal, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, fenugreek seeds, and dry red chilies.
2. Dry roast – Toast the ingredients until they turn golden brown and aromatic, about 1 minute. Transfer them to a plate and let them cool.
3. Grind the spices – Once cool, grind the mixture to a fine powder in a blender or spice grinder. Set the spice powder aside.

Step 2: Cook the Eggplant and Prepare the Base

1. Heat oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter for 10 seconds.
2. Add curry leaves and asafoetida; sauté for a few seconds until the aroma is released.
3. Add the chopped eggplant and a little salt. Sauté until the eggplant softens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble and Cook the Vangi Bhath

1. Add turmeric powder and the prepared Vangi Bhath spice powder to the eggplant mixture. Stir to combine.
2. Add the washed rice, a little more salt, and 2 cups of water. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
3. Seal the cooker and cook the mixture for 3 whistles (or about 10 minutes) on medium heat.
4. Allow the pressure to release naturally. Open the cooker lid and check the rice consistency. If the rice needs more cooking, add a splash of water, seal, and cook for 1 additional whistle.

Step 4: Serve

• Fluff the Vangi Bhath gently with a fork and transfer it to a serving bowl.
• Serve hot with raita and papad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Enjoy the rich flavors of South Karnataka with this easy-to-make Vangi Bhath. Perfect for busy days, this one-pot meal combines simplicity with the bold flavors of roasted spices and tender eggplant.