Baingan Besan Ki Sabji Recipe (Eggplant Gram Flour Curry)
Baingan Besan ki Sabji is a delicious and easy-to-make Indian dish that combines eggplant (baingan) with gram flour (besan) and aromatic spices. This dry sabji is perfect for pairing with roti, paratha, or dal-rice. It has a slightly crispy texture due to roasted besan and a rich, flavorful taste. This recipe is particularly popular in North Indian and Rajasthani households. Let’s dive into the step-by-step method to prepare this tasty Baingan Besan ki Sabji.
Ingredients
For the Sabji:
- Baingan (Eggplant) – 250 grams (small or medium-sized, chopped)
- Besan (Gram Flour) – 4 tablespoons
- Mustard Seeds (Rai) – ½ teaspoon
- Cumin Seeds (Jeera) – ½ teaspoon
- Asafoetida (Hing) – ¼ teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder (Haldi) – ½ teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Coriander Powder (Dhania Powder) – 1 teaspoon
- Garam Masala – ½ teaspoon
- Amchur Powder (Dry Mango Powder) – ½ teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Oil – 3 tablespoons
- Curry Leaves – 7-8 leaves (optional, for extra flavor)
- Green Chilies – 1-2 (chopped)
- Garlic – 4 cloves (finely chopped or crushed)
- Fresh Coriander Leaves – 2 tablespoons (finely chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baingan
- Wash the baingan (eggplants) thoroughly under running water.
- Cut them into small cubes or thin slices. If using long eggplants, slice them into semi-circular pieces.
- Immediately soak the chopped baingan in water with a little salt to prevent them from turning black due to oxidation.
Step 2: Roast the Besan
- Heat a pan on low flame and add 4 tablespoons of besan (gram flour).
- Dry roast the besan while stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Roast until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. This step enhances the taste of the sabji.
- Once roasted, transfer the besan to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3: Tempering (Tadka) the Spices
- In the same pan, heat 3 tablespoons of oil on medium flame.
- Add mustard seeds (rai) and cumin seeds (jeera). Let them crackle.
- Add asafoetida (hing), curry leaves, chopped green chilies, and garlic. Sauté for a few seconds until the garlic turns slightly golden.
Step 4: Cooking the Baingan
- Drain the baingan pieces and add them to the pan. Stir well to coat them with the oil and spices.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix everything well.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the baingan cook on low-medium heat for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- When the baingan becomes soft and cooked properly, remove the lid.
Step 5: Adding Roasted Besan
- Sprinkle the roasted besan over the baingan and mix well.
- Keep stirring so that the besan coats the baingan evenly and doesn’t form lumps.
- Cook for another 3-4 minutes on low flame, allowing the besan to absorb the flavors and give the sabji a crispy texture.
- Add garam masala and amchur powder for a tangy and aromatic flavor. Mix well and cook for another minute.
Step 6: Final Touch and Serving
- Turn off the flame and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with roti, paratha, or dal-chawal.
Tips and Variations
- Choosing Baingan: Small eggplants or long purple eggplants work best. Avoid overripe eggplants as they may have too many seeds.
- Enhancing Flavor: Adding crushed peanuts along with besan gives an extra crunch and nutty taste.
- Spiciness: Adjust red chili powder and green chilies based on your spice preference.
- Tanginess: If you don’t have amchur powder, you can squeeze some lemon juice at the end for a tangy flavor.
- Besan Coating: Stir continuously after adding besan to prevent lumps and ensure an even coating.
Health Benefits of Baingan Besan Ki Sabji
- Rich in Fiber: Eggplant helps in digestion and promotes gut health.
- Good Source of Protein: Besan (gram flour) is high in protein and beneficial for muscle health.
- Heart-Healthy: Eggplant contains antioxidants that support heart health.
- Gluten-Free: This sabji is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Low in Calories: This dish is filling yet light, making it suitable for weight management.
Serving Suggestions
- With Indian Breads: Baingan Besan ki Sabji pairs best with roti, paratha, or puri.
- As a Side Dish: Serve it with dal-rice or curd rice for a wholesome meal.
- With Buttermilk: A glass of buttermilk (chaas) complements this dish well.
Conclusion
Baingan Besan ki Sabji is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the best of eggplant and gram flour. The roasted besan gives it a unique texture and taste, making it a great option for everyday meals. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can prepare this delicious sabji in under 30 minutes. Try this recipe today and enjoy the crispy, spicy, and tangy flavors with your favorite Indian bread or rice!