Master The Art Of Bharwa Baingan: A Step By Step Recipe Guide

Bharwa Baingan is a delicious Indian dish featuring small eggplants stuffed with a spicy mixture of peanuts and spices. Cooked in oil until tender, it pairs well with various Indian breads or rice. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Serve it with yogurt for a complete meal.

Bharwa Baingan, or stuffed eggplant, is a flavorful Indian dish made by filling small eggplants with a spiced mixture. The stuffing typically includes roasted peanut powder, sesame seeds, and a blend of spices. The eggplants are then cooked in oil until tender and infused with flavors. This dish is perfect served with roti, paratha, or rice, and can be complemented by yogurt or salad. The preparation involves making a stuffing, filling the eggplants, and cooking them thoroughly. It’s a delightful and nutritious option for any meal.

Ingredients

• For the Stuffing:
  • 250g small eggplants (baingan)
  • 3 tablespoons oil (preferably mustard oil)
  • 2 tablespoons roasted peanut powder
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Eggplants:

• Choose small, firm eggplants. Rinse them well and make a vertical slit on each, keeping the stem intact. This helps in stuffing.

2. Make the Stuffing:

• In a mixing bowl, combine roasted peanut powder, sesame seeds, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
• Add finely chopped onion, green chilies, coriander leaves, and lemon juice to the mixture. Mix everything well to form a cohesive stuffing.

3. Stuff the Eggplants:

• Carefully stuff each eggplant with the prepared mixture, pressing gently to fill them well. Ensure the stuffing is packed but not overflowing.

4. Cook the Stuffed Eggplants:

• Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai over medium heat.
• Once hot, place the stuffed eggplants carefully in the pan. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes on one side.

5. Stir and Cook Thoroughly:

• After 5 minutes, gently turn the eggplants using tongs to cook on all sides. Cover the pan with a lid to help the eggplants cook through.
• Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplants are tender and fully cooked.

6. Serve:

• Once cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with additional coriander leaves if desired.
• Serve Bharwa Baingan hot with roti, paratha, or rice, accompanied by yogurt or a salad.

Tips:

• Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
• You can also add other vegetables like grated carrots or chopped bell peppers to the stuffing for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Ensure the eggplants are fresh and firm for the best results.

Enjoy your delicious Bharwa Baingan.