Here's a simple recipe for sautéing eggplant Indian style using cumin seeds, black seeds, turmeric, onions, garlic, chilis, and curry leaves:
Course Dinner Lunch
Cuisine Indian
Diet Gluten Free, Vegan
Keyword sauteed eggplant recipe indian
Prep Time 5 minutesminutes
Cook Time 15 minutesminutes
Servings 4
Ingredients
One medium-sized or 3-4 small eggplants, cut into thin slices
One large onion, finely sliced
4-5 garlic cloves, minced
2-3 chilies, slit lengthwise (fresh or dried )
1 tsp cumin seeds
½ tsp black mustard seeds(option)
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Few curry leaves (fresh or dried ) (option)
2-3 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation:
Wash and cut the eggplant into slices. Soak the eggplant in salted water for 5-10 minutes to reduce bitterness. Drain and pat dry.
Cooking:
Heat the oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and black mustard seeds. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they start to sizzle and become fragrant.
Add the curry leaves and let them splutter for a few seconds.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add the minced garlic and chilies. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic's raw smell disappears.
Adding Eggplant:
Add the eggplant and turmeric powder to the pan and mix everything well so that the eggplant is coated with the spices.
Add salt to taste.
Cover the pan and cook on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant becomes soft and tender. If it sticks to the pan, sprinkle a little water to help it cook without burning, and it allows eggplants to cook soft and tender.
Finishing Touches:
Once the eggplant is cooked and nicely sautéed, check the seasoning and adjust the salt if needed.
Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Serving:
Serve hot with rice, roti, or any Indian bread you choose.
Notes
Choosing and Preparing Eggplant
Selection: Pick eggplants that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes.
This recipe works best with medium, small-sized, firm, and shiny eggplants. Avoid overly large or seedy eggplants like (American (Globe).