Recipe

Serves: 2-3 people (as a main course with chapati)

Portion Size: 1 medium bowl (about 1 cup per person)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Large(about 500g)- Eggplant (large) -
• 2 tbsp Oil- (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 medium Onion- roughly chopped
• 2 medium Tomatoes- roughly chopped
• 1 Green chili- finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup Frozen peas- (optional)
• 1/2 tsp Coriander seeds- crushed roughly
• 1/4 tsp- Turmeric powder-
• 1/2 tsp- Red chili powder-
• 1 tsp - Coriander powder-
• Salt-  to taste
• Fresh cilantro- for garnish, chopped

Instructions

Roast the Eggplant

• Wash and dry the eggplant. Make a few slits on its surface and brush it lightly with oil.
• Roast the eggplant over an open flame, or on tawa/griddle or in an oven at 450°F (230°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and the skin is charred.
•  Cool slightly, then peel off the charred skin and mash the flesh with a fork roughly.

Cook the Bharta

• In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add coriander seeds and let them sizzle.
• Add chopped onions and sauté a little, do not overcook, we need the crunchiness.
• Add green chili sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
•  Add roughly chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook until tomatoes crunchy , do not overcook. Now add peas if you are using them. If using fresh peas then boil them first in salted water and then add.
• Add the roughly chopped eggplant to the pan. Mix well, then add salt and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.

Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with fresh cilantro.
• Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

Tips

• Add Smokiness-  Enhance the flavor by adding a smoked coal technique. Place a hot charcoal piece in a bowl inside the bharta pan, cover for a minute, then remove before serving.
• Do not overcook anything for crunchiness and subtle flavors
• Vegetable Add-ins-  Add green peas for a pop of color and flavor.
• If you like it creamy then overcook onion, garlic and mash eggplant smoothly while cooking. You can add a spoonful of yogurt or cream .