Eggplant Bharta

My Love Affair with Eggplant Bharta

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can often feel like a Herculean task. Juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending laundry pile leaves me with little energy at the end of the day. But even amidst the chaos of daily life, I refuse to compromise on nourishing my family with flavourful home-cooked meals. That's where Eggplant Bharta comes in – a simple, yet incredibly rewarding dish that satisfies my craving for authentic Indian flavours without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s become a weeknight staple, a quick and easy solution for a satisfying dinner that even my picky eaters enjoy.

The beauty of Eggplant Bharta lies in its simplicity. It’s a dish that allows for improvisation, and honestly, that’s what makes it so much fun! I often adjust the spices based on what I have on hand, sometimes adding a bit more chili for a spicier kick, or experimenting with different herbs. The smoky flavour of the roasted eggplant, combined with the aromatic spices, creates a symphony of tastes that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a versatile dish, too. Sometimes I serve it as a side dish alongside fluffy basmati rice and naan bread, other times it’s the star of the show, scooped up with warm roti or served atop a bed of creamy yogurt. It’s adaptable to any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a more sophisticated gathering with friends.

Beyond its culinary appeal, Eggplant Bharta holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of family gatherings and the warmth of my grandmother's kitchen. The rich aroma of spices simmering on the stove always brings a flood of cherished memories. Now, I get to share that same warmth and comfort with my own children, creating new traditions and memories around this simple, yet deeply satisfying dish. It’s a testament to how even the most straightforward recipes can carry so much heart and meaning. The process of making it is a little ritual for me, a brief escape from the demands of daily life, allowing me to focus on creating something delicious and wholesome for my loved ones. The satisfaction I feel after preparing a batch of Eggplant Bharta is unmatched. It’s more than just a meal; it's a small act of love, a testament to the enduring power of simple food and cherished moments.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant
• Extra virgin olive oil for brushing
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 small brown onion, finely chopped
• 2.5 cm piece of ginger, peeled and grated
• 1/2 small green chili, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely chopped (to yield 1/2 cup)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, ground
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander, ground
• 1 teaspoon cumin, ground
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Sea salt to season
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves to serve (optional)
• Indian dosas to serve

This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and what you have in your pantry. Experiment with different spices and herbs to find your perfect combination. Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or potatoes for a heartier dish. The possibilities are endless!

Step-by-step

• Cut three or four slits in the eggplant, then brush the eggplant with a little olive oil. Heat a medium frying pan over medium heat, then fry the eggplant for 10 minutes, turning frequently, until it is soft and charred. Remove from the heat. When cool enough to handle, remove and discard the skin. Mash the flesh and set aside.
• Heat the ghee in a clean frying pan over medium heat and add the cumin seeds. Cook for 1 minute, then add the onion and cook for another minute. Add the ginger, garlic and chilli, then cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute. Add the tomato and ground turmeric, coriander and cumin, then continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 3 minutes. Add the mashed eggplant, garam masala and salt. Stir to combine and cook for a further 2 minutes.
• Top with the coriander leaves (if using) and serve with Indian dosas.