Photo: Dolon Prova · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Westbengal · Lunch

Begun Bhaja

Traditional Recipe 12: Begun Bhaja recipe

🧺 Ingredients

• Brinjal (eggplant): 400g, cut into 0.5cm thick lengthwise slices
• Mustard oil: 300ml for frying
• Turmeric powder: 0.5 tsp (1.5g)
• Chilli powder: 0.75 tsp (2.5g)
• Salt: to taste
• Nigella seeds: 0.5 tsp (2.5g)

👩‍🍳 How to make Begun Bhaja

1. Sprinkle turmeric and salt on eggplant slices. Let sit for 5 minutes to release moisture.
2. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat mustard oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat (170°C).
4. Test temperature: a small slice should sizzle immediately and sink then rise.
5. Fry eggplant slices in batches, avoiding overcrowding (4-5 minutes per batch).
6. First side should cook for 2-3 minutes until light golden. Flip and fry another 2 minutes until both sides are golden-brown and crispy.
7. Remove to paper towels. Drain well.
8. While still warm, sprinkle chilli powder and nigella seeds over fried slices. Toss gently.
9. Serve immediately to maintain crispness.

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