BEGUB BHAJA | BENGALI EGGPLANT FRY

BEGUB BHAJA | BENGALI EGGPLANT FRY
View Instructions

Servings

2

Ready In:

15 mins

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About this Recipe

By: Paromita

 

Begun Bhaja: A Delightful Bengali Eggplant Dish

Begun Bhaja, also known as Baingan Bhaja or Fried Eggplant, is a classic Bengali dish that celebrates the humble eggplant in all its glory. This delectable vegetarian preparation is a testament to the art of simple yet incredibly flavorful cooking that is deeply rooted in the Bengali culinary tradition.

The name “Begun Bhaja” can be broken down to “Begun,” which means eggplant, and “Bhaja,” which translates to fry or shallow fry in Bengali. This dish revolves around the idea of transforming eggplant slices into crispy, golden-brown delights that are both savory and addictive.

The process of making Begun Bhaja is relatively straightforward but requires precision to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Here’s how it’s typically prepared:

  1. Selecting the Eggplants: Begin by choosing firm and fresh eggplants (usually the smaller varieties) that are free from blemishes. Slice them into thin rounds, about a quarter-inch thick. You can keep the skin on for added texture and flavor. The lesser the seeds the better.

  2. Seasoning: The eggplant slices are seasoned generously with a mixture of turmeric powder, salt, and ssugar. This spice blend adds depth and warmth to the dish.

  3. Shallow Frying: Heat a pan with a generous amount of oil, preferably mustard oil, which imparts a distinctive and authentic flavor to Begun Bhaja. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned eggplant slices in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they turn crisp and golden on both sides. The key is to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a creamy, melt-in-the-mouth interior.

  4. Draining Excess Oil: After frying, transfer the eggplant slices to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil. This step ensures that the Begun Bhaja remains light and not overly greasy.

INGREDIENTS

  • Eggplant or Begun
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Mustard oil for frying

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1

Wash and cut eggplant into thcvk slices

Step 2

Mix all the spices and rub on both sides of eggplant.

Step 3

Rest for 10 mins

Step 4

Shallow fry on both sides for about 5 mins, or until soft.

Serve with white rice and ghee or rotis.