Baigan ka Bharta

The word “Baigan” refers to eggplant, and “Bharta” means mashed or minced. Baigan Bharta is essentially a dish where roasted or grilled eggplant is mashed and cooked with various spices to create a flavorful and aromatic dish. In some reason of India we call it as Chokha also. Which can be serve with litti, Roti ,Rice or Bhakri.

Different states and communities in India have their own versions of Baigan Bharta, incorporating local flavors and preferences.

The preparation of Baigan Bharta typically involves roasting the eggplant to impart a smoky flavor to the dish. Traditionally, this was done by placing the eggplant directly on open flames, but modern methods, such as oven roasting, are also commonly used.

While the exact historical timeline may be challenging to trace, Baigan Bharta has undoubtedly become a beloved and iconic dish in Indian cooking, representing the diversity and richness of the country’s culinary traditions.

Here is a quick recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 large eggplant (baigan)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, chopped
– 2 green chilies, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Wash the eggplant and prick it with a fork in several places.
2. Roast the eggplant directly over a gas flame or on an electric stove until the skin is charred and the flesh becomes soft. Alternatively, you can roast it in the oven.
3. Let the roasted eggplant cool. Peel off the charred skin and mash the pulp.
4. In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
5. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
6. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and oil starts to separate.
7. Add the mashed eggplant to the pan and mix well with the masala.
8. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. And now you can Serve Baigan ka Bharta hot with roti or rice or Bhakri.

Enjoy your delicious Baigan ka Bharta!