Authentic Baingan Bharta

Ingredients

• 1 piece Large Eggplant (Bharta Baingan)
• 2 tablespoons Mustard Oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 2 medium Onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
• 2 pieces Green Chillies, slit
• 2 medium Tomatoes, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam Masala
• 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. 1

   Wash the eggplant and pat dry; brush with a little oil and prick with a fork in several places.

2. 2

   Roast the eggplant directly over an open gas flame, turning frequently until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.

3. 3

   Place the roasted eggplant in a bowl and cover for 5 minutes to steam, then peel off the charred skin and mash the flesh thoroughly.

4. 4

   Heat mustard oil in a pan until it smokes, then reduce heat and add cumin seeds until they splutter.

5. 5

   Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and light golden brown.

6. 6

   Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chillies, cooking for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

7. 7

   Add tomatoes and all dry spices (turmeric, chili, coriander); cook until the tomatoes soften and oil starts to separate.

8. 8

   Fold in the mashed eggplant and salt, mixing well; cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, then garnish with garam masala and fresh cilantro.