Bengali · serves 2

Begun Bhaja

Fried brinjal slices. Five minutes of work and it makes plain dal-rice feel like a meal.

15 min Easy Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 large brinjal, in thick round slices
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp red chilli powder
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp rice flour (optional)
  • 4 tbsp mustard oil

Method

  1. Slice thick — thin slices go floppy. Rub each side with turmeric, chilli, salt and sugar.
  2. Rest 10 minutes. Water will bead on the surface; pat it dry.
  3. Dust with rice flour if you want a crust.
  4. Mustard oil, medium heat, lay them flat with space between.
  5. 4 minutes a side without touching them. Drain on paper. Eat hot with dal and rice.

Questions people ask about Begun Bhaja

How long does Begun Bhaja take?

About 15 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is straightforward. That is start-to-finish, so it works on a weeknight when you have not planned anything.

Can I make Begun Bhaja ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Begun Bhaja vegetarian?

Yes, and as written it is vegan too. Check your specific brands if that matters to you.

What do you serve with Begun Bhaja?

Eat hot with dal and rice. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.

Don't know what to cook? Let it decide →

More ideas by ingredient

If you liked this

Kolkata Egg Roll
20 min · Some work
Chingri Malai Curry
25 min · Some work
Aloo Posto
30 min · Some work
Ghugni
35 min · Easy
Labra
35 min · Easy
Cholar Dal
40 min · Some work