Easy Bharwa Baigan Aloo
Bharwa Baingan Aloo (Stuffed Eggplant with Potatoes) is a traditional Indian dry curry that’s loved across homes for its bold spices and homestyle comfort. Also known as Bharwan Baigan or Stuffed Brinjal, this dish is a staple in many regional cuisines of India—sometimes filled with spicy peanut-coconut masala, other times...
Ingredients
small brinjals (baby eggplants)500g
medium-sized potatoes, cubed2
mustard oil4tbsp
garlic, sliced (optional)4clove
cumin seeds1tsp
For the Spice Mix
coriander powder1tbsp- cumin powder1tsp
turmeric powder1/2tsp
red chilli powder1/2tsp- Kashmiri chilli powder1/2tsp
kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)1tbsp
garam masala powder1/2tsp
salt (or to taste)1tsp
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
128.9kcal (6.44%)
Protein
1.7g (3.4%)
Carbs
6.1g (2.21%)
Sugars
2.9g (5.76%)
Healthy Fat
9.8g
Unhealthy Fat
1.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Easy Bharwa Baigan Aloo
Prepare the Spice Mix
- Step 1
In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices: coriander, cumin, turmeric, red chilli powder, Kashmiri chilli, kasuri methi, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
Stuff the Brinjals
- Step 1
Wash and pat dry the brinjals.
- Step 2
Make a deep cross-slit in each one, keeping the stem intact.
- Step 3
Carefully stuff them with the spice mix.
- Step 4
Toss the potato cubes with any leftover spice mix and keep aside.
Cook the Sabzi
- Step 1
Heat mustard oil in a wide pan until it just begins to smoke, then lower the heat.
- Step 2
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add sliced garlic and sauté for a few seconds.
- Step 3
Arrange the stuffed brinjals in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. Flip gently and cook them until the skin begins to brown.
- Step 4
Gently push the brinjals to the sides of the pan and add the potatoes in the centre. Sauté them for a minute, then mix everything together.
- Step 5
Cover and cook on low–medium heat until the brinjals turn soft and the potatoes are perfectly tender.
Garnish & Serve
- Step 1
Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.
- Step 2
Enjoy hot with dal and roti for a wholesome meal, or serve as a side dish with steamed rice and curry.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
128.9kcal (6.44%)
Protein
1.7g (3.4%)
Carbs
6.1g (2.21%)
Sugars
2.9g (5.76%)
Healthy Fat
9.8g
Unhealthy Fat
1.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Mustard oil gives the dish its authentic pungent flavor. If you prefer, you can swap it with a neutral oil like sunflower or canola.
Keep the pan covered after cooking – this locks in moisture and intensifies the aroma.
FAQS
What’s the difference between North Indian Bharwa Baingan and South Indian Stuffed Brinjal?
In North Indian Bharwa Baingan Aloo, the stuffing is usually made with dry masalas like coriander, cumin, chilli, and garam masala. In South India, stuffed brinjal (like Ennai Kathirikai) often uses a peanut-coconut or sesame-based masala for a spicier, tangier taste.
Can I use a different oil instead of mustard oil?
Yes, you can use a neutral oil like sunflower or canola, but mustard oil adds an authentic pungent flavor to the dish.
How do I ensure the brinjals cook evenly?
Arrange the stuffed brinjals in a single layer and cook undisturbed before flipping gently. This helps them cook evenly and retain their shape.
Can I skip the garlic?
Yes, garlic is optional in this recipe. You can skip it if you prefer.
What can I serve this sabzi with?
This sabzi pairs well with dal and roti for a wholesome meal or as a side dish with steamed rice and curry.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of red chilli powder to suit your taste preferences.
How do you make Bharwa Baingan Aloo step by step?
To make Bharwa Baingan Aloo, prepare a dry spice mix, stuff it into baby brinjals, and cook them with potatoes in mustard oil until tender. The slow cooking helps the eggplants soak up all the masala, giving the dish its authentic flavour
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Leena Kohli
(@leenakohli)
Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨ Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨...
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