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Dahi Baingan (Eggplant with Yogurt)

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4
This eggplant dish is flavorful and tangy. Good as a side or in a wrap.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dark eggplant
  • 1 medium onion (sliced)
  • tsp ginger (chopped finely)
  • 1 medium green chili (chopped in half)
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • ½ tsp red chili powder (optional)
  • 3 tbsp plain yogurt (beaten smooth)
  • ½ tsp garam masala (found in Indian grocery stores)
  • 3 tbsp cooking oil
  • 1 tsp salt (or to your taste)
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions 

  • Wash and drain the eggplant. Cut them into round slices (not too thick) or into bite-sized bits.
  • Mix all the dry spice powders and salt in a medium bowl with the chopped eggplant. Make sure the eggplant is well-coated with all the spices. Set aside.
  • Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed wok or skillet on medium-high heat.
  • Add the cumin seeds, stir for about 20 seconds.
  • Add the chopped green chili. Stir. Stir it. About 20 seconds.
  • Now, add the chopped ginger and stir for about 30 seconds.
  • Add the sliced onions. Sauté the onion for 4 minutes until it starts to turn slightly brown.
  • Now add the marinated eggplant. Stir well.
  • Add ¼ cup of water. Cover, turn the heat down to medium, and let it cook for 4 minutes until the sliced eggplants turn semi-soft and the oil starts to surface.
  • Uncover and add the yogurt. Stir well and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to surface again and the eggplant is cooked. Approximately 10 minutes.
  • After 10 minutes, taste and test it for salt. Add more, if needed. Stir. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes so that the flavors are well absorbed.
  • Empty into a serving dish and garnish with chopped cilantro.         
  • Use in a wrap or with rice and dal or dal and roti.

Notes

If lactose intolerant, add a tablespoon of tomato paste or 2-3 tablespoons of tomato sauce. Add it after the onions are done. Cook for about 2 minutes, and then add the eggplant.
Course: Side Dish, Vegetarian
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: baingan, eggplant