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

Eggplant and Sesame Curry - A Special Exotic Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious and aromatic recipe that brings a touch of exoticism to your kitchen, eggplant and sesame curry is the perfect choice. This recipe, inspired by the culinary traditions of South Asian regions, combines rich flavors and simple ingredients, giving you a meal full of taste. Here’s how to prepare this dish, step by step.

A Brief History of Curry

Curry, a word that means 'sauce' in Tamil, is more than just a simple recipe; it is an entire culinary culture, rooted in India, Sri Lanka, and other Southeast Asian countries. This combination of spices was popularized in Europe in the 18th century by Indian traders, quickly becoming a favorite in kitchens around the world. Each region has its own version of curry, but all include a diverse mix of spices that give the dish its unmistakable flavor.

Preparation Time and Servings

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Necessary 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 (preferably fresh, but dried can be used)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 cube of coconut sugar
- Oil for frying

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparing the eggplants:
Wash the eggplants well under cold running water and dry them with a kitchen towel. Use a sharp knife to make two lengthwise slits in each eggplant, being careful not to cut all the way through. These slits will help the eggplants open like petals and absorb the delicious flavors of the curry.

2. Frying the eggplants:
In a deep skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom. When the oil is hot, add the eggplants and fry them until golden and soft. This process may take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the eggplants onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

3. Preparing the curry base:
In the same skillet (you can add a little oil if necessary), add the mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves. Let them sauté for about 1 minute until the mustard seeds start to pop. This is when the aroma will be released, bringing an inviting smell to the kitchen.

4. Adding the onion:
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Here, you can be patient, as the caramelized onion will add a natural sweetness to the dish.

5. Using the flavors:
Add the garlic and ginger paste, then the ground sesame seeds, salt, chili powder, turmeric, coriander, and the coconut sugar cube. Mix well to combine all the flavors. The tamarind juice will add a touch of acidity and balance the flavors of the dish.

6. Finalizing the curry:
Once all the ingredients are combined, add the fried eggplants and mix well. Let everything simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, so the eggplants absorb the curry flavors. At this point, the aroma will become irresistible!

7. Serving:
Eggplant and sesame curry is delicious served with Indian chapati bread or with a side of boiled rice. You can add a spoonful of yogurt on top for a creamy contrast and to temper the intensity of the spices.

Practical Tips

- Choosing eggplants: Opt for small, fresh eggplants with smooth, shiny skin. They will have a more tender texture and a sweeter taste.
- Sesame seeds: If you love the deep flavor of sesame seeds, you can toast them before grinding. The taste will be much more intense.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables to the curry, such as bell peppers or carrots, to give it an even more interesting note.
- Storage: The curry keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The next day, the flavors intensify, making it an excellent option for pre-prepared meals.

Nutritional Benefits

Eggplant and sesame curry is not only delicious but also healthy. Eggplants are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while sesame seeds are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats. This dish contains natural antioxidants and can support heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or carrots, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the curry spicier?
Add more chili powder or a few slices of fresh chili pepper.

3. Is this curry vegan?
Absolutely! It is a 100% vegetarian and vegan recipe, perfect for anyone looking to eliminate animal products.

Perfect Pairings

Eggplant and sesame curry pairs wonderfully with a refreshing yogurt drink like lassi or with mint tea, which will balance the intensely spiced flavors of the dish.

In conclusion, eggplant and sesame curry is a recipe that will help you impress your family and friends, offering them an explosion of flavors and a touch of culinary culture. So, don't hesitate to unleash your creativity and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!