Achari Baingan Bharta: A Flavorful North Indian Delight
Achari Baingan Bharta is a delightful North Indian dish that combines the earthy flavors of roasted eggplant with the vibrant spices of achari masala, inspired by the tanginess of pickles. This unique preparation not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings the warmth of Indian cooking right to your dining table. It can be served alongside soft Tawa Parathas and a hearty Garlic Dal, making it a wholesome meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Let’s dive into the recipe that will take your culinary journey to new heights!
Ingredients
The ingredients for Achari Baingan Bharta are simple yet packed with flavor. Below is a detailed table of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplant (Baingan) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomatoes | 3 medium-sized |
| Onion | 1 medium-sized |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 5 cloves |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh coriander (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Coriander powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Mango pickle (achar) | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Pickle spice (achari masala) | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Cooking oil | As required |
| Asafoetida (hing) | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Kalonji (black cumin) seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fenugreek seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Carom seeds (ajwain) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Dry red chilies | 2 |
| Dried mango powder (amchur) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Preparation Time
| Description | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Servings | 3 |
Instructions
Creating Achari Baingan Bharta is an enjoyable process, filled with aromatic spices and delightful flavors. Follow the step-by-step guide below to bring this dish to life:
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Roasting the Spices:
Begin by placing all the ingredients for the achari spices in a pan over low heat. Roast them gently until they become fragrant but be careful not to burn them. This step enhances the flavors and gives the dish its distinctive achari taste. -
Grinding the Spices:
Transfer the roasted spices to a mixer grinder. Add the dried mango powder (amchur) to the mixture and grind it into a fine powder. Set this spice mix aside for later use. -
Preparing the Eggplant:
Lightly coat the eggplant with oil to prevent it from drying out during roasting. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the eggplant, along with chopped onion and tomatoes, in a baking tray and roast them in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes. Once done, take them out and allow them to cool. -
Mashing the Vegetables:
Once the roasted vegetables have cooled down, carefully peel the skin off the eggplant and mash it thoroughly with a fork. Remove the skin from the onion and chop it finely. Peel the tomatoes, discard the seeds, and mash them as well. -
Cooking the Base:
Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger, finely chopped garlic, and green chilies. Sauté these ingredients for about a minute until they release their aromas. Be careful not to let them burn. -
Building the Flavor:
Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until they turn translucent. Then, add the mashed tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the spices to meld beautifully. -
Combining the Ingredients:
After the onion and tomato mixture has cooked well, add the previously prepared achari spice mix, the mango pickle, and the mashed eggplant to the pan. Mix everything together gently to ensure the spices coat the vegetables evenly. -
Final Touches:
Allow the Achari Baingan Bharta to cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat, letting the flavors blend beautifully. Once done, remove it from heat and garnish it with fresh chopped coriander for a burst of freshness. -
Serving:
Serve this delightful Achari Baingan Bharta hot with Tawa Parathas or accompany it with a comforting bowl of Garlic Dal for a complete meal. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your lunch or dinner spread.
Conclusion
Achari Baingan Bharta is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together to create a dish rich in tradition and taste. The use of spices not only adds depth but also elevates the humble eggplant to a culinary star. This recipe, passed down through generations, is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying with your family on a cozy evening. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your home!
Enjoy the journey of cooking and the delight that comes from sharing such a flavorful dish!
