Bihari Baingan Ka Chokha: Smoky Roasted Eggplant Delight
Bihari Style Baingan Ka Chokha Recipe
Baingan Ka Chokha is a traditional Bihari delicacy that is enjoyed in every household across Bihar. This flavorful dish is usually paired with Littis, a stuffed wheat dough ball filled with sattu (roasted gram flour), offering a delightful combination of taste and texture. Baingan Ka Chokha is made by roasting brinjal (eggplant) and mixing it with finely chopped vegetables and spices, creating a comforting, aromatic dish that can be served for lunch or dinner. Whether you prepare it in a traditional style or opt for a roasted version, this dish brings the essence of Bihari cuisine to your plate.
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Bihari
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (Eggplant) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Green Chilli | 1, finely chopped |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, grated |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mustard Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Wash the brinjal (eggplant), tomatoes, green chilies, onion, and ginger. Chop the tomato, green chili, and onion finely. Grate the ginger. -
Roasting the Brinjal:
- On Gas Flame: Roast the brinjal directly on the gas flame. Turn it occasionally with tongs until the skin is charred, and the flesh becomes soft. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
- In the Oven: Alternatively, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the brinjal on a baking sheet and roast it for 30 minutes or until the brinjal becomes soft and its skin chars.
-
Cool and Peel:
After roasting, allow the brinjal to cool down. Once cooled, peel off the skin and discard it. Mash the brinjal pulp using a fork and set it aside. -
Prepare the Tempering:
In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil over medium heat. Once the oil heats up, add 1/4 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing) and let it sizzle for a few seconds to release its flavor. -
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onions, grated ginger, and green chilies to the pan. Sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft. -
Add Tomatoes:
Now, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook them until they soften and blend well with the other ingredients. This should take around 3-4 minutes. -
Mix the Roasted Brinjal:
Add the mashed brinjal to the pan. Stir it well to incorporate all the ingredients together. Season with salt according to taste. Let the mixture cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on medium heat. -
Final Touches:
Once the Baingan Chokha has cooked through and the flavors have melded together, remove it from the heat. Give it a final stir to mix everything evenly. -
Serve:
Serve your flavorful Bihari-style Baingan Ka Chokha hot with Littis or alongside Lahsuni Daal (Garlic Lentils) and Phulkas for a complete and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Baingan Ka Chokha is best enjoyed when paired with Littis, a traditional Bihari wheat flour ball filled with sattu and roasted over a flame, or served alongside a bowl of Lahsuni Daal and soft Phulkas. This combination offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for lunch or dinner.
Tips:
- Alternative Roasting Methods: If you don’t have access to an open flame, you can also roast the brinjal on a grill or use a stovetop grill pan for a similar smoky flavor.
- Add Herbs for Extra Flavor: Some variations of Baingan Ka Chokha include fresh cilantro or mint for a burst of freshness. You can mix these herbs in just before serving.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier version, you can add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
Bihari Baingan Ka Chokha is a wonderful vegetarian recipe that brings the heart of Bihar’s home-cooked flavors to your kitchen. Its smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors make it a perfect addition to your lunch or dinner menu!
