Cuisine of Punjab:Baigan Bharta

Baigan Bharta (Mashed Brinjals)

Ingredients:

• 1 large Brinjal
• 2 tablespoons Oil
• 1 pinch Asafoetida
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 large Onion
• 1 tablespoon Chopped ginger
• 1 teaspoon Chopped garlic
• 1 teaspoon Green chillies
• 1 large Chopped tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Chilli powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Garam masala
• Salt

Method :

Wash and wipe the brinjal. Roast it over direct flame for a few mintues, turning it often so that it cooks evenly. Roast till the brinjal shrinks, blackens and starts peeling off. Cool,peel and mash the brinjal.

Heat the oil in a pan.Add the asafoetida and cummin seeds and saute till the seeds are light brown in colour. Add 1/2 the chopped onion, ginger, garlic and green chillies. Saute on a low flame for about 5 mintues, stirring continously. Add the chopped tomato, mashed brinjal, chilli powder,turmeric powder and salt. Cook covered on a low flame for about 5 mintues.

Mash the brinjal thoroughly with the back of a ladle and add the remaining onion. Cook uncovered on a high flame for 2 mintues, stirring continuously. Add the garam masala and mix well.

Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and green chillies.

Serve hot with roti, naan or paratha.