Baingan Masala Recipe
An Irresistibly Flavorful Indian Dish
Introduction
Baingan Masala is a fragrant and hearty side dish made with tender brinjal (eggplant) cooked in a delicious blend of tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic spices like garam masala and coriander powder. This vegetarian delight is perfect for pairing with dal, raita, or phulkas, adding a burst of flavor to any meal. The combination of spices gives this dish an earthy, rich taste that is both comforting and invigorating. Whether you’re looking for a main dish or a side, Baingan Masala will certainly captivate your taste buds.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (eggplant) | 1, cut into 1-inch wedges |
| Tomato puree | 3/4 cup |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, crushed |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chili powder | To taste |
| Oil | As needed |
| Green coriander (cilantro) | A few sprigs, chopped |
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Instructions
-
Cook the Brinjal
Start by preparing the brinjal (eggplant). Cut it into 1-inch wedges and set it aside. Heat some oil in a pan, then add salt to the oil. Stir well to coat the brinjal with salt. Cover the pan and cook the brinjal until it is halfway cooked, about 5β7 minutes. Once it is partially cooked, open the lid and continue cooking until the brinjal is soft and fully cooked. Turn off the heat and set the cooked brinjal aside. -
Prepare the Spice Base
In the same pan, add a little more oil. Once the oil is hot, add the crushed garlic and sautΓ© it for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Add the tomato puree along with turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, salt, and red chili powder. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala and the tomatoes have softened. -
Combine Brinjal and Masala
Add the previously cooked brinjal to the pan with the tomato masala. Stir gently to coat the brinjal in the flavorful spices. Cover the pan and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the brinjal to absorb the flavors. -
Garnish and Serve
Once the cooking time is over, turn off the heat and garnish the Baingan Masala with freshly chopped green coriander. This not only adds a refreshing flavor but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Baingan Masala is best served with warm Garlic Dal, a refreshing Burani Raita, and soft Phulkas for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or jeera rice, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether itβs a weeknight dinner or a special lunch gathering, Baingan Masala will surely become a family favorite.
Conclusion
This Baingan Masala is not only a perfect example of Indian cuisine but also a comfort food that is full of rich flavors. The combination of roasted brinjal, tangy tomato, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. Perfect for those who appreciate simple yet flavorful vegetarian dishes, this recipe is a must-try!
Tips
- For extra flavor, you can roast the brinjal on an open flame before adding it to the masala for a smoky taste.
- Adjust the spiciness of the dish by modifying the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
- To make the dish richer, add a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of Baingan Masala!
