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Westbengal · Breakfast

Begun Bhaja

Traditional 24. Begun Bhaja recipe

🧺 Ingredients

• 400g eggplant (begun), sliced 1/4-inch thick lengthwise
• 3 tbsp mustard oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
• 1/4 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tbsp rice flour
• Salt to taste
• Fresh green chillies, sliced

👩‍🍳 How to make Begun Bhaja

1. Prepare eggplant (5 mins, room temp): Slice eggplant lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Sprinkle salt lightly on both sides, let sit 5 mins to remove moisture. Pat dry with cloth.
2. Coat eggplant (2 mins, low): Mix rice flour, turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, salt. Dust each eggplant slice on both sides.
3. Heat oil (2 mins, high): Oil should shimmer and smoke.
4. Temper spices (30 secs, high): Add cumin seeds (crackle in 3 secs), asafoetida.
5. Fry eggplant in batches (10 mins, medium-high): Arrange eggplant slices in single layer. Fry 3-4 mins per side until golden-brown and soft. Don't flip too early or they break. Each slice should turn soft inside, crispy outside.
6. Drain and serve (2 mins, room temp): Place on paper towels. Top with fresh green chillies slices.

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