Goan Style Brinjal Bharta Recipe
Goan Style Brinjal Bharta is a flavorful and unique twist on the classic eggplant dish, often known for its smoky flavor and tangy undertones. This dish, also called “Baingan Bharta” in many parts of India, is enriched with the richness of tamarind, coconut, and fresh herbs, making it a perfect addition to your lunch menu. The smoky aroma from the roasted brinjal combined with the fresh, sharp taste of onions and green chilies gives this dish a distinctively delightful character. Here’s how you can recreate this Goan delight right at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Eggplant (Baingan) | 1 | Ensure the eggplant is firm and fresh. |
| Onions | 2 | Finely chopped. |
| Green Chilies | 2 | Chopped to add spice. |
| Green Coriander | 1/2 cup | Finely chopped for garnish and flavor. |
| Tamarind Paste | 1 tablespoon | Adds a tangy kick to the dish. |
| Grated Coconut | 2 tablespoons | Freshly grated for a rich, nutty flavor. |
| Tamarind (fresh) | 1 small piece (marble-sized) | For an extra depth of tanginess. |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust according to preference. |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon | For roasting the eggplant. |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
45 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Servings
2 servings
Cuisine
Goan
Course
Lunch
Diet
Vegetarian
Instructions
To prepare this Goan-style brinjal bharta, follow these simple steps to enjoy the smoky, tangy, and rich flavors of the dish:
-
Prepare the Eggplant:
Start by washing the eggplant thoroughly. Make 4 deep slits along the surface of the eggplant. This helps the eggplant cook evenly and absorb the flavors during roasting. -
Roasting the Brinjal:
Heat oil in a pan on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, coat the eggplant with some oil and place it in the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 2 minutes. After 2 minutes, open the lid and carefully flip the eggplant. Continue to turn the eggplant, ensuring it gets roasted evenly on all sides. -
Adding Tamarind for Flavor:
After flipping the eggplant, slit one side of the eggplant and place a small piece of tamarind inside the slit. Cover the pan again and continue roasting. Keep turning the eggplant until it becomes soft, cooked through, and slightly browned on the outside. This process will take about 30-40 minutes. -
Cooling the Eggplant:
Once the eggplant is completely cooked, remove it from the pan. Let it cool in the pan for a while and then cover it with a lid to retain its smoky aroma. After it cools down, peel the skin off the eggplant. -
Prepare the Bharta Mixture:
Mash the roasted eggplant with a fork or masher. Once mashed, add finely chopped onions, green chilies, and grated coconut to the eggplant. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. -
Flavoring the Bharta:
Add tamarind paste and salt to the mashed eggplant mixture. Stir well to ensure that the tamarind is evenly distributed. You can also add a little water if the mixture is too thick, depending on your preference. -
Garnishing:
Finally, garnish the bharta with freshly chopped green coriander. This adds a fresh burst of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. -
Serving:
Serve your Goan-style Brinjal Bharta hot with Gujarati Kadhi, Khichia, and Phulka for a traditional Goan lunch experience. You can also enjoy this dish with steamed rice or any Indian bread of your choice.
Tips for the Perfect Goan Brinjal Bharta:
- For an extra smoky flavor, you can roast the eggplant on an open flame, just like they do in traditional tandoors or ovens.
- If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add more green chilies or even a pinch of red chili powder to the mixture.
- Using fresh tamarind enhances the flavor of the dish. If you’re using tamarind paste, adjust the quantity based on its strength.
- The addition of grated coconut adds a lovely richness to the dish, so try to use fresh coconut for the best flavor.
This Goan-style Brinjal Bharta is a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors that will transport you straight to the coastal kitchens of Goa. It’s a healthy, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Enjoy the goodness of fresh ingredients and traditional flavors with this unique, vegetarian delight.
