Andhra Brinjal Curry

Preparing lunch is the most daunting task and the question, ‘what is to be cooked today’ is something that all housewives detest. While cooking in itself is not so difficult, the deciding factor is. Most people in the family have different choices and sometimes they clash. Preparing lunch is also important because it is that one meal that sustains you through the day. If you want to invite a guest and do not have the time to cook an elaborate meal, then go for this easy lunch recipe. Andhra Brinjal Curry is a South Indian curry recipe made using brinjal and cumin seeds. This delicious main dish recipe goes well with naan and steamed rice. Coconut adds a unique flavour and aroma to this dish. Try out this easy lunch/dinner recipe.

INGREDIENTS

200 gm cubed eggplant/ brinjal
1 chopped onion
1 tablespoon refined oil
1 dash mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon ground garlic
1/2 teaspoon ground poppy seeds
1 clove
1/2 tablespoon powdered jaggery
1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
1 pinch powdered turmeric
1/4 cup tamarind extract
1/2 cup grated coconut
1/2 teaspoon moong dal
1/8 teaspoon asafoetida
1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 inch cinnamon stick
1/2 teaspoon yoghurt (curd)
2 pinches salt
1/2 teaspoon ground sesame seeds
For Garnishing
1 handful chopped coriander leaves

INSTRUCTIONS

• Heat oil in a pan over moderate flame. Fry the moong dal, mustard seeds, asafoetida with onions. Saute the onions till they turn slightly pinkish in hue. Add ground garlic and fry. Keep stirring till the raw smell of the garlic goes away.
• Now add coriander powder and brinjals. Fry till the brinjals change colour. Cover the pan with a lid and allow it to cook on low flame. Simmer till brinjals are soft. Add poppy seeds, cinnamon and cloves. Stir well.
• After few minutes, add curd, jaggery and salt. Keep stirring. Add sesame seeds, turmeric powder, coconut, chilli powder and cook for a few minutes. Now add tamarind pulp mixed with a little water. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes with the lid on.
• Once the curry is ready, transfer it to a serving bowl and garnish with coriander leaves. This delicious main dish recipe goes well with naan and steamed rice. Serve hot.