Brinjal sabzi is a beloved staple across Indian kitchens, known for its rich flavors and versatility. This humble vegetable, also called eggplant or aubergine, transforms into a mouthwatering dish when cooked with traditional Indian spices.
Whether you prefer it tangy, spicy, or mildly flavored, brinjal sabzi offers a delightful experience that complements rice, roti, or parathas perfectly. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for vegetarians and vegans alike.
In this post, we’ll explore multiple popular variations of brinjal sabzi recipes from different regions of India. From the tangy Maharashtrian style to the spicy Punjabi version and the aromatic South Indian twist, you’ll learn how to make each one easily at home.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the magic of brinjal sabzi!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Brinjal sabzi is an incredibly versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste preference. Its bold spices and tender texture make it a perfect comfort food.
Plus, it’s quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, which makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
The eggplant absorbs the spices beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, brinjal sabzi pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes.
You’ll also appreciate how easily this recipe can be customized with different spices or additional vegetables.
Ingredients
- Brinjal (eggplant) – 500 grams, chopped into medium-sized pieces
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Tomato – 1 large, chopped
- Green chili – 1-2, slit (adjust to taste)
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 teaspoon
- Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
- Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala – ½ teaspoon
- Amchur (dry mango powder) – 1 teaspoon (optional for tanginess)
- Salt – to taste
- Oil – 2 tablespoons (preferably mustard or vegetable oil)
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan or kadhai
- Sharp knife and chopping board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Bowl for mixing ingredients
- Lid for the pan
Instructions
- Wash and chop the brinjal: Rinse the brinjal under cold water and chop into medium-sized cubes. Soak in salted water for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness, then drain and pat dry.
- Heat oil: In a non-stick pan or kadhai, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them crackle.
- Sauté aromatics: Add finely chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions turn translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes soften and oil starts to separate.
- Cook the brinjal: Add the drained brinjal pieces. Mix well so they are coated with the spice mixture.
- Cover and simmer: Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Final seasoning: Once the brinjal is tender, sprinkle garam masala and amchur powder (if using). Stir gently and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot with chapati, rice, or paratha.
Tips & Variations
Tip: To avoid the brinjal absorbing too much oil, fry the pieces lightly before adding them to the sabzi or use a non-stick pan with less oil.
- Maharashtrian Style: Add a pinch of jaggery and use goda masala for a sweet and spicy flavor.
- Punjabi Style: Use tomatoes in abundance and add a splash of fresh cream or yogurt for richness.
- South Indian Style: Temper with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chilies. Use tamarind paste instead of amchur for tanginess.
- Variation: Add diced potatoes or bell peppers for extra texture and taste.
- Vegan Note: This recipe is naturally vegan. Avoid cream or yogurt if following a strict vegan diet.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Vitamin C | 12% DV |
Potassium | 290 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Brinjal sabzi pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a comforting meal. It also goes well with Indian breads like chapati, paratha, or naan.
For a complete meal, you can serve it alongside dal (lentil curry) and a cooling cucumber raita. If you want to explore more Indian vegetarian dishes, check out our Muthiya Kadhi Recipe or Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
To add a fusion twist, try this sabzi as a filling in wraps or sandwiches for a delicious snack.
Conclusion
Brinjal sabzi is a classic Indian dish that showcases the incredible flavors and cooking techniques of Indian cuisine. It is easy to prepare, healthy, and adaptable to a variety of regional tastes.
Whether you like it mild or spicy, tangy or creamy, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your home.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few steps, you can create a flavorful dish that pleases everyone at the dining table. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations mentioned and make the dish your own.
And if you enjoy exploring Indian vegetarian recipes, you might love our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or the hearty Ground Pork And Mushroom Recipes for your next meal inspiration.
📖 Recipe Card: Brinjal Sabzi
Description: A flavorful Indian vegetable dish made with tender brinjals cooked in aromatic spices. Perfect as a side with roti or rice.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g brinjal (eggplant), chopped
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard and cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook for 2 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Mix in turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt.
- Add chopped brinjal and stir well to coat with spices.
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes until brinjal is tender.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 18 g
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