Baingan Bharta (Indian Spiced Eggplant Mash)

Baingan Bharta (Indian Spiced Eggplant Mash) Ingredients

Grill2 large or 3 medium eggplants (firm with shiny skin & at room temp)5 cloves garlic (halved lengthwise)2 green chillies (sliced)1 tsp oilMash1 tbsp oil1 cup onions (diced)3 cloves garlic (grated)1 inch ginger (grated)1 cup tomatoes (diced)1/2 tsp chilli powder1 tsp salt (to taste)1/2 tsp garam masala

Garnish

cilantro or parsley (chopped)lemon (quartered)

Steps

Wash, pat dry & make 4 long slits on each eggplant.Stuff slits with garlic & chillies then brush with oil.Place a wire rack on top of hot coal or stove top & arrange eggplants on top.Turn eggplants every 2 mins to make sure that all sides are equally charred.Grill for 10-15 mins until skins are fully charred & flesh fully roasted.Cool eggplants till it’s safe to peel off their skin without burning your hands.Mash grilled eggplants together with the grilled garlic & chillies, set aside.In a large pan on medium high heat, add oil.When hot, add onion, garlic & ginger, cook till onion turns translucent.Add tomatoes, salt & chilli powder, cook till tomatoes break down.Add mashed eggplant mixture, mix well, add garam masala & cook for 5 mins.Taste to adjust seasoning, transfer into serving plate/bowl & garnish with cilantro/parsley.Squeeze lemon on dish just before consuming.