Baingan Masala Recipe
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with Baingan Masala, a beloved Indian dish that beautifully highlights the rich, earthy flavors of brinjal (eggplant) paired with a medley of aromatic spices. This vibrant dish not only makes a perfect side but also serves as a delicious complement to your main courses, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (Eggplant) | 1, cut into 1-inch wedges |
| Tomato Puree | 3/4 cup |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red Chili Powder | To taste |
| Oil | As needed |
| Fresh Coriander (Cilantro) | A handful, for garnish |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Sodium | Varies based on salt usage |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Side Dish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
To create a sumptuous Baingan Masala, begin by preparing the brinjal. First, cut the brinjal into wedges of approximately one inch in size, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add salt and mix it well into the oil.
Now, gently place the brinjal wedges into the pan, spreading them out evenly. Cover the kadhai with a lid and allow the brinjals to cook until they are halfway done—this typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After this initial cooking period, uncover the pan and continue to cook the brinjal until they are completely tender and well-cooked, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, remove the brinjals from the pan and set them aside.
In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary and heat it again. Once the oil is ready, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 10 seconds, allowing it to infuse its aroma into the oil without burning. Following this, pour in the tomato puree along with turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, salt, and red chili powder. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the spices blend seamlessly with the tomato puree. Allow this fragrant mixture to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, letting the flavors develop.
After the spice and tomato mixture is well-cooked, gently add the previously cooked brinjals back into the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring that the brinjals are thoroughly coated in the rich, spicy mixture. Cover the pan once more and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the brinjal to absorb the spices fully.
When the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and garnish your Baingan Masala with freshly chopped coriander. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, particularly Garlic Dal, Burani Raita, and soft, warm Phulkas, making it a perfect choice for dinner that will surely impress your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
For an authentic Indian meal experience, serve Baingan Masala alongside garlic dal and burani raita, complemented with freshly made phulkas. This combination not only enhances the flavor profile of the meal but also provides a delightful variety of textures and tastes.
Final Thoughts
Baingan Masala is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine, showcasing the versatility of brinjal. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it invites you to explore the delightful world of spices and traditional cooking methods. Enjoy your culinary adventure and savor every bite!
