Brinjal Capsicum Sabzi: A Delightful Indian Vegetable Dish
Brinjal Capsicum Sabzi, also known as Baingan Aur Shimla Mirch ki Sabzi, is a delightful Indian vegetarian dish that combines the earthy flavors of brinjal (eggplant) and the sweet, vibrant taste of capsicum (bell pepper). This dish is perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner and pairs beautifully with various Indian bread like Tawa Paratha or even steamed rice. Below is a detailed recipe that guides you through creating this flavorful dish, infused with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (Eggplant) | 2, cut into long slices |
| Capsicum (Green Bell Pepper) | 1, chopped |
| Garlic | 5 cloves, finely chopped |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chilies | 2, chopped |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chili Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Powder | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Fresh Coriander (Cilantro) | chopped, for garnish |
| Oil | as needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Heating the Oil
Begin your culinary journey by heating a generous amount of oil in a kadai (wok) over medium heat. The right amount of oil not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that your vegetables cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Aromatic Base
Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped garlic along with the asafoetida. Sauté these ingredients for about 10 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt. The aroma of garlic combined with hing creates a flavorful base for your sabzi.
Step 3: Adding Vegetables
Next, add the sliced brinjal and chopped capsicum to the pan. Stir-fry these vegetables for about 2 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors from the oil and spices. The brinjal should begin to soften slightly, taking on the heat and essence of the cooking oil.
Step 4: Spice It Up
After the brinjal and capsicum have cooked for a couple of minutes, it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder. Mix well to ensure that the spices coat the vegetables evenly, releasing their flavors into the dish.
Step 5: Incorporating Tomatoes
After the spices have sautéed with the vegetables for 2 to 4 minutes, add the chopped tomato. The tomatoes not only add acidity but also moisture to the dish. Cook until the vegetables are soft, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the vegetables are tender, season the sabzi with salt according to your taste. Allow the dish to cook for another minute, giving it a final stir to blend in the salt. The brinjal and capsicum should be fully cooked and infused with all the spices, creating a delicious, homely flavor.
Step 7: Garnishing and Serving
Remove the pan from heat and garnish the Brinjal Capsicum Sabzi with freshly chopped green coriander. The vibrant green herbs add a fresh contrast to the dish and elevate its visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Brinjal Capsicum Sabzi hot alongside Panchmel Dal (a mixed lentil curry), Bundi Raita (a yogurt-based side with crispy chickpea flour balls), and Tawa Paratha (a flatbread cooked on a griddle). This combination creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that is both comforting and flavorful.
This Brinjal Capsicum Sabzi is not just a dish but a celebration of flavors that captures the essence of Indian cuisine. With its colorful presentation and rich taste, it’s sure to be a hit at your dining table. Enjoy every bite!
