Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large eggplants, cut into 1/4 inch thick slices
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Special Equipment Needed:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Frying pan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Place the eggplant slices on a cutting board and cut them into 1/4 inch thick slices.
2. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
3. Add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and salt to the pan and stir to combine.
4. Add the eggplant slices to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle with the chopped cilantro.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: Medium-low
Serving Size: 4
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 130
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil: Canola oil or olive oil
- Cumin seeds: Ground cumin
- Mustard seeds: Ground mustard
- Turmeric powder: Curry powder
- Red chili powder: Cayenne pepper
- Garam masala: Curry powder
- Coriander powder: Ground coriander
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of diced onion to the pan before adding the eggplant slices.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper to the pan before adding the eggplant slices.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes to the pan before adding the eggplant slices.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cut the eggplant slices evenly so that they cook evenly.
- Be careful not to overcook the eggplant slices, as they can become mushy.
Storage Instructions:
Begun Bhaja can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the Begun Bhaja on a platter with a side of rice or naan.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, diced onion, and diced bell pepper.
Pairings:
Pair with a side of rice or naan.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Rice
- Naan
- Raita
- Chutney
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the eggplant slices are not cooking evenly, reduce the heat and cover the pan.
- If the eggplant slices are becoming too soft, reduce the cooking time.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to cook the eggplant slices thoroughly before serving.
Food History:
Begun Bhaja is a popular Bengali dish that is believed to have originated in the 19th century.
Flavor Profiles:
Begun Bhaja has a savory and slightly spicy flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of rice or naan and a side of raita or chutney.
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Region: Indian