Baingan bharta is a popular Indian aubergine dish made with roasted mashed eggplants and spices. It is vegan and gluten-free. It is served with Indian meals. Check out how to make baingan bharta using an air fryer or an oven.
Optionally place a garlic clove inside the cut eggplant.
Roast eggplant in an Air Fryer
Place the eggplants in the air fryer basket.
Roast the eggplants in the air fryer at 390°F for 20-25 minutes.
Roast eggplant in the oven
Pre-heat the oven to 450°F.
Place the eggplants in a baking tray in the oven for about 20 minutes.
Make baingan bharta
Scoop the pulp of the eggplants and mash it.
Heat a skillet on the cook top and add oil once heated.
Add chopped garlic, serrano peppers, and onions and saute until onions are translucent.
Add the salt, coriander powder, and cumin powder and saute for a few seconds.
Add the mashed eggplants and peas and mix well.
Cook on medium flame for 2-3 minutes.
Transfer to a serving bowl, optionally sprinkle some lemon juice and cilantro for garnishing
Notes
VariationsTomatoes - I have not added tomatoes but you can add one chopped tomato while cooking and this will also make the bharta a bit red in color.Spicy - to make it spicier, you can add more serrano peppers, red chili powder, or garam masala to taste.Smoky - add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.