Bangladeshi Spicy Eggplant Bhorta

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants (600g) 2 large eggplants (600g)
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   Place the eggplants on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.
3. 3.
   Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the charred skin and discard.
4. 4.
   In a bowl, mash the roasted eggplant flesh using a fork or a potato masher until it reaches a chunky consistency.
5. 5.
   Heat mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green chilies, and sauté until the onion turns translucent.
6. 6.
   Add the mashed eggplant, chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. 8.
   Serve the Spicy Eggplant Bhorta as a side dish or condiment with rice or flatbreads.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Eggplants — Make sure to choose firm and shiny eggplants without any blemishes. The roasting process will enhance their flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra smoky flavor, you can roast the eggplants directly over an open flame instead of using the oven.
• Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.
• Let the bhorta sit for a while before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving advice

Spicy Eggplant Bhorta is best served as a side dish alongside steamed rice or traditional Bangladeshi flatbreads like roti or naan. It can also be enjoyed as a condiment with grilled meats or as a spread on sandwiches for an extra kick of flavor.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Spicy Eggplant Bhorta with fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in a small bowl or on a platter, allowing the vibrant purple color of the bhorta to shine through.