Vegetarian Baigan Ka Bharta

Vegetarian Baigan Ka Bharta is a mashed and Indian spiced eggpant dish, to be eaten with rice or Indian breads. This vegetarian Indian recipe is also vegan. Baigan ka bharta, also sometimes spelled "baingan ka bjarta" is an Indian Punjabi favorite.

See also: More vegetarian Indian food recipes

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil. divided
• 2 eggplants, sliced in half
• 1/3 tsp mustard seed
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 green chilies, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp mango powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garam masala (a mixture of curry, cumin and coriander can make a reasonable substitute)
• dash salt, to taste
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice

Preparation:

Drizzle the eggplants with one tablespoon olive oil and bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes, or until soft. Cool and remove peels. Mash or blend until smooth.

In the remaining one tablespoon of olive oil, heat the mustard seeds, bay leaves, chilies, ginger and onions for a few minutes.

Add the eggplant and remaining ingredients and stir well to combine. Allow to cook for at least 6 to 8 more minutes.

Serve hot with rice or Indian bread.

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