Smoked aubergine curry, also known as brinjal curry or eggplant curry, is a popular and delicious Indian dish. Made with aubergines, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of herbs and spices, this one-pot curry is quick and easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a satisfying meal. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of smoked aubergine curry, including its ingredients, preparation, variations, and serving suggestions.
About Aubergine
Aubergine, also known as eggplant or brinjal, is a versatile vegetable widely used in Indian cuisine. It is a low-calorie vegetable that contains essential nutrients like iron and minerals. Aubergines are commonly used to make curries, sambar, chutney, stir-fries, and bharta. They come in different varieties, sizes, and colors, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and taste.
When it comes to making aubergine curry, the type of aubergine used can significantly impact the final result. Larger varieties of aubergines have a spongy texture and do not easily dissolve in the curry. On the other hand, smaller varieties are more tender and cook to a softer and mushier texture, resulting in a thicker curry where the aubergine absorbs all the flavors more quickly.
In South India, smaller varieties of aubergines are commonly used for curry. These aubergines have a buttery taste and are more flavorful after cooking. They come in two colors: purple and green. However, any kind of aubergine can be used for the curry, but tender varieties with fewer or no seeds tend to taste the best.
How to Make Smoked Aubergine Curry
Preparation
To make smoked aubergine curry, start by chopping 1 large or 2 medium onions, 1 large or 2 medium tomatoes, and 1 green chili. You can deseed the tomatoes if desired or puree them in a blender. You will need approximately ¾ to 1 cup of onions and ¾ to 1 cup of tomatoes.
Next, wash and cube 250 grams of aubergines. It is recommended to immerse them in a bowl of water with a pinch of salt to prevent them from becoming bitter and discolored. Chop the aubergines just before cooking to maintain their freshness.
Making the Onion Tomato Masala
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pot and add ¼ teaspoon of mustard seeds and ½ teaspoon of cumin seeds. When they begin to splutter, add 1 sprig of curry leaves and fry for a minute. Then, add the onions and 1 slit or chopped green chili. Fry until the onions turn golden or transparent. Next, add 1 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste and fry until fragrant.
Add the tomatoes and sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of salt. Fry for about 2 minutes and then cook covered until the tomatoes turn mushy. Stir in ½ to 1 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, and 1/8 teaspoon of turmeric. Adjust the amount of these spices according to your taste preferences. Saute until the raw smell of the chili powder dissipates and the masala becomes aromatic.
Making the Aubergine Curry
Remove the cubed aubergines from the water and add them to the pot. Saute the aubergines for 3 minutes over medium heat. Pour in half a cup of water. If you prefer a dry curry, reduce the amount of water and add more as needed while cooking.
Mix well and cook covered over low heat until the aubergines are soft and tender. The skin of the aubergines will become loose or wilted, depending on the variety used. Taste test the curry and add more salt if needed. For a creamy variation, you can also add ¼ cup of thick coconut milk and stir well. Once the curry begins to bubble, turn off the heat and sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves if desired.
Variations of Smoked Aubergine Curry
While the basic recipe for smoked aubergine curry is simple and delicious, there are several variations you can try to add your own twist to the dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Add green peas: For a sweeter tone and added flavor, you can include ¾ cup of fresh or frozen green peas in the curry. Add them when the aubergines are half cooked if using fresh peas, or towards the end if using frozen peas.
- Include potatoes: Dicing 1 to 2 medium-sized potatoes and adding them along with the aubergines can create a heartier curry with great flavors. However, remember to adjust the amount of spices and salt accordingly.
- Experiment with spices: While the traditional recipe uses a minimal amount of spices, you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. You can use more garam masala, curry powder, or even sambar powder for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Smoked aubergine curry is a versatile dish that can be served with rice or any Indian flatbreads of your choice, such as chapati, roti, or parathas. The creamy and flavorful curry pairs well with the mildness of rice or the texture of the flatbreads. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish in a larger Indian meal.
Overall, smoked aubergine curry is a delightful and satisfying Indian dish that brings together the rich flavors of aubergines, onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is a quick and easy recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are a fan of aubergines or looking to try a new curry recipe, this smoked aubergine curry is sure to impress your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put eggplant in curry?
Absolutely! Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a popular ingredient in Indian curries. It adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish. Whether you roast, sauté, or smoke the eggplant before adding it to the curry, it will contribute to the overall deliciousness of the dish. So go ahead and include eggplant in your curry for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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