Introduction: Baingan Bhaja Recipe
Baingan Bhaja Recipe, a beloved traditional Bengali recipe, is a timeless favorite. Traditionally, it involves shallow-frying eggplant slices in abundant oil until they become succulent and aromatic. However, we’ve devised a healthier version of this dish without compromising on its deliciousness.
Preparation:
Creating a healthy eggplant snack is simple. Prepare a batter using besan (gram flour) combined with common spice powders and water. Dip the brinjal slices into this batter. Then, cook these batter-coated slices on a tava (griddle) with minimal oil.
Usage: Baingan Bhaja Recipe
Baingan Bhaja serves as a comforting snack or a delightful side dish to accompany the main course. You’ll relish the flavors of this Bengali Begun Bhaja, which boasts a lively blend of spice and tang!
Recipe Modification:
We’ve cleverly modified the traditional Baingan Bhaja recipe to achieve the same delightful results with minimal oil. The outcome is a healthy eggplant snack that maintains the dish’s fabulous taste and texture while adhering to acceptable calorie levels.
Each slice of this healthy eggplant snack yields only 14 calories, making it ideal for those following a low-carb diet. Additionally, it provides 1 gram of fiber per slice, suitable for weight-watchers, diabetics, heart patients, and even those with PCOS.
Health Benefits: Baingan Bhaja Recipe
The anthocyanins found in brinjal help reduce free radical damage in the body and inflammation, making Bengali Begun Bhaja suitable for inclusion in a cancer diet plan.
Ingredients: Baingan Bhaja Recipe
- 18 large eggplant (baingan) slices
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup besan (Bengal gram flour)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tsp oil for greasing and cooking
Method: Baingan Bhaja Recipe
- In a deep bowl, mix chili powder, turmeric powder, lemon juice, besan, salt, and 2 tbsp of water to make a batter.
- Add the baingan slices to the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. Set aside.
- Heat a non-stick tava (griddle) and grease it with ½ tsp of oil. Arrange half of the baingan slices on the tava and cook on both sides until golden brown.
- Repeat the process to cook the remaining batch of baingan slices.
- Serve the Baingan Bhaja immediately.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Energy: 43 cal
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 4.6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Fat: 2.1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 4.3 mg
Conclusion:
Healthy Baingan Bhaja Recipe offers a delightful twist to the traditional Bengali dish, allowing you to indulge in its flavors guilt-free. By making simple modifications to the cooking method and ingredients, you can enjoy the same delicious taste and texture while keeping the calorie count in check. Whether served as a snack or a side dish, this healthy eggplant recipe is suitable for various dietary needs, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to your menu. So, whip up a batch of Baingan Bhaja and savor the goodness of this wholesome dish!
FAQs about Baingan Bhaja Recipe
Can I use any other flour instead of besan (gram flour)?
Yes, you can experiment with other flours like chickpea flour or rice flour, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
Can I bake the baingan slices instead of cooking them on a tava (griddle)?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake the coated baingan slices on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
How can I make the baingan slices crispier?
To make the baingan slices crispier, ensure that the tava (griddle) is well-heated before cooking. Additionally, you can sprinkle a little rice flour or cornstarch on the slices before coating them with the besan batter.
Can I prepare the besan batter in advance and store it?
Yes, you can prepare the besan batter in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Just give it a quick stir before using it to coat the baingan slices.
Can I add other spices to the besan batter for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the besan batter by adding spices like cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, or chaat masala according to your taste preferences.
