Looking for a delicious and easy way to enjoy eggplant? This Crispy Baingan Bhaja is crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with bold Indian spices. Even those who usually avoid brinjal will fall in love with this version!
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Perfectly spiced and crispy texture
- Uses simple ingredients from your kitchen
- Great with dal-chawal or as a tea-time snack
- Loved by kids and adults alike!
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 fresh large eggplants (~400g total)
- ½ cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 pack Maggi Masala-e-Magic
- 1–2 tbsp semolina (sooji/rava)
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder (optional)
- 1 tsp amchur (dry mango powder)
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili for color
- Salt to taste
- 3–4 tsp mustard oil (or any cooking oil)
- Water (as needed)
🔪 Preparation Steps:
✅ Step 1: Prep the Eggplants
- Wash and dry the eggplants thoroughly.
- Slice into medium-thick round pieces. Avoid too thin or too thick slices.
- Lightly score each slice with a criss-cross pattern.
This helps the masala seep in and ensures even cooking inside.
✅ Step 2: Spice Mix & Marination
- In a bowl, combine all the dry spices: red chili, turmeric, coriander, cumin, amchur, Kashmiri chili, and salt.
- Mix well.
- Rub this masala mixture generously on each slice.
- Set aside for 5–7 minutes to marinate.
✅ Step 3: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add ½ cup besan and 1 packet of Maggi Masala-e-Magic for that irresistible flavor boost.
- Add water slowly to make a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Keep it slightly thick (not watery).
✅ Step 4: Coat & Crisp
- Dip each marinated eggplant slice in the batter, then coat with sooji on both sides.
- This step adds a super crunchy texture after frying.
- Shake off excess sooji.
✅ Step 5: Pan Fry to Perfection
- Heat mustard oil on a flat tawa or non-stick pan.
- Place slices carefully without overcrowding.
- Fry on medium heat, flipping both sides until golden brown and crisp.
Be patient – cook each side evenly for the best texture!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with dal-chawal for a satisfying meal
- Enjoy as an evening snack with chutney or ketchup
- Works great as a side dish for Indian thalis
📢 Bonus Tips:
- Always use fresh, big-size eggplants for even slices
- Maggi masala is optional but takes the flavor up a notch!
- You can use air-fryer or shallow fry method for less oil
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