- 1
First, take 250 gms of baby brinjals, small size.
- 2
Clean them properly and make a plus (+) shape slit on the bottom side of each brinjal.
- 3
This allows the penetration of spice and gravy into the brinjals to give them extra flavour.
- 4
Prepare a paste of 2 Tbsp of peanuts, 1 Tbsp of sesame seeds, and 1 Tbsp of shredded coconut.
- 5
Roast them in a dry pan separately, but after roasting a few brown peanuts, add sesame seeds and then shred the coconut, let it until all gets brown and an excellent flavour emits from it; let that aside cool down.
- 6
Grind these roasted ingredients fine by using a blender and add a little water if necessary to achieve a smooth paste.
- 7
Then, this paste forms the basis of the creamy and flavoured curry.
- 8
In a large pan, heat 2 Tbsp of oil on medium. Add 1 Tsp mustard seeds and 1 Tsp cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add some fresh curry leaves.
- 9
This tempering brings out earthy aromas from the spices, which then help to form a base for the flavour of the dish.
- 10
Add one finely chopped onion to the pan and saut until golden. Golden onions add natural sweetness and balance the rich, nutty flavour of the dish.
- 11
Add 1 Tsp of ginger-garlic paste and saut for another minute until the raw smell of ginger and garlic disappears.
- 12
It is enough to give the dish depth, rich aroma, and flavour that comes with enhanced intensity.
- 13
Add the slit brinjals in a pan and saut them for a few minutes, coating them in the onion mixture.
- 14
To it, add 1 Tsp of turmeric powder, 1 Tsp of red chilli powder, and salt to taste.
- 15
Mix well so they become replete with spices and add bright colour to the brinjals, giving it an aroma of slight spiciness.
- 16
Add the ground paste prepared at step 4 into the pan, followed by 1 cup of water.
- 17
Mix everything well. Then, close the lid of the pan. Now bring down the flame and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes till the time brinjals get well cooked into the masala and turn soft.
- 18
Meanwhile, stir occasionally so that it does not stick at the bottom of the pan.
- 19
Now add 1 Tbsp of tamarind pulp and 1 Tsp of garam masala.
- 20
Stir well and cook for the remaining 2-3 minutes or till the flavours mix well together.
- 21
Turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, chopped. This recipe of bagara baingan is best enjoyed hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or roti.
- 22
This recipe of bagara baingan dish tastes richly flavourful and nutty, spicy and tangy.