Curry with eggplant and sesame - 'Fried brinjal sesame curry' - Sri Lankan recipe

Eggplant and Sesame Curry - An Engaging Sri Lankan Recipe

Eggplant and sesame curry is a delicious dish that blends exotic flavors and interesting textures, bringing a touch of savor to your kitchen. This traditional Sri Lankan recipe revives the rich and varied tastes of South Asian cuisine. Whether you are an experienced cook or an eager amateur wanting to try something new, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 6 small purple eggplants
- 100 g roasted and finely ground sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup tamarind juice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
- Salt to taste
- Chili powder to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- A few curry leaves (fresh or dried)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 cube of coconut sugar
- Oil for frying

History of the Dish

Curry is a term that defines a variety of dishes from South Asia, characterized by a complex mix of spices. From its beginnings in Indian regions, curry has evolved, becoming a symbol of culinary diversity. The curry leaves, often used in this dish, come from the Murraya koenigii tree, bringing a distinct aroma and a slightly sweet taste. This eggplant and sesame recipe is not only nutritious but also a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Eggplant: Wash the eggplants and dry them with a kitchen towel. Cut them lengthwise, making two deep cuts but without completely separating them, so they open up like petals. This step is essential to allow marination and absorption of flavors.

2. Frying the Eggplant: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cut eggplants and fry them until they change color and become soft, about 5-7 minutes. Remove them onto a paper towel to eliminate excess oil.

3. Preparing the Sauce: In a wok, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the cumin, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, sautéing for about 1 minute until the aromas are released.

4. Adding the Onion: Incorporate the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden. This is when your dish will start to smell divine.

5. Seasoning: Add the garlic and ginger paste, ground sesame seeds, salt, chili powder, turmeric, coriander, and coconut sugar. Mix well and let simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finalizing the Dish: Add the fried eggplants to the wok and gently mix, letting them combine with the sauce for another 10 minutes. Ensure that the eggplants are well coated with the flavorful sauce.

7. Serving: Serve the curry with Indian chapati bread or a side of boiled rice. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a spicy chutney for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Eggplant: Opt for small, purple eggplants as they have a more delicate texture and sweeter flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use regular eggplants.
- Sesame Seeds: You can toast the sesame seeds before grinding them to enhance the flavor.
- Tamarind Sauce: If you don’t have tamarind juice on hand, you can use lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, but the taste will be different.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional Benefits

Eggplant and sesame curry is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, while sesame seeds add a valuable source of protein and healthy fats. This dish is also vegan and can be a great option for those looking to diversify their diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots. Make sure to cut them into small pieces for even cooking.

2. How can I store the curry?
The curry can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the oven before serving.

3. Is this curry spicy?
The spiciness level depends on the amount of chili powder you add. You can adjust the heat level to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair this curry with a glass of cold coconut water or mint tea. The aroma and freshness of these drinks will perfectly complement your dish and create a delightful culinary experience.

So, gather your fresh ingredients, prepare your utensils, and let yourself be carried away by the flavors of this amazing Sri Lankan recipe. Enjoy your meal!