Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 1/4 cup water
- Oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, chickpea flour, and water to make a thick batter.
3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. Dip each eggplant slice in the batter, making sure it is coated evenly.
5. Carefully place the eggplant slices in the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.
6. Remove the fried eggplant slices from the pan and place them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Fat per serving: 5g
Carbohydrates per serving: 16g
Protein per serving: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chickpea flour can be substituted with all-purpose flour or rice flour.
- Red chili powder can be substituted with paprika or cayenne pepper.
Variations:
- Add chopped onions and green chilies to the batter for extra flavor.
- Use different spices such as garam masala or curry powder for a different taste.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the eggplant slices are not too thick, as they will take longer to cook.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and make the eggplant slices soggy.
- Serve with a side of mint chutney or tamarind sauce for added flavor.
Storage instructions:
Begun bhaja can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the fried eggplant slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the fried eggplant slices on a platter and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro
Pairings:
Begun bhaja goes well with rice and dal, or as a side dish with any Indian meal.
Suggested side dishes:
Rice and dal
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the batter is too thick, add more water to thin it out.
- If the eggplant slices are not crispy, increase the heat of the oil.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when frying with hot oil.
- Make sure the eggplant slices are cooked through before serving.
Food history:
Begun bhaja is a popular Bengali dish that is typically served as a side dish or snack.
Flavor profiles:
Spicy, savory, crispy
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a side dish or snack.
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Region: Indian