Dahi Baingan with Panch Phoron ( Eggplant in Yoghurt)

Instructions

1. Wash, dry pat and cut the round bottom part of the baby eggplant making a cross + like slit, so that the yoghurt gravy and spices can reach the inside of the baby eggplant (Picture Attached Right Above this Recipe). Make sure you cut the baby eggplant not more than ½ of it’s length as a deeper cut might lead to a possibility that the eggplant might break and split into half during the cooking stage. Season the eggplants with a pinch of salt and turmeric.
2. In a bowl take the yoghurt and beat it until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and 1 tsp sugar. Keep aside for assembling.
3. In a heavy bottom pan or wok, heat 2 tbsp oil and shallow fry the eggplant over medium low flame. Cook patiently in batches covering the wok from time to time so as to cook the eggplants from Take off and drain on kitchen towel.
4. In the same pan add another 2 tbsp of oil. Once heated add all the ingredients for the tadka and wait till the seeds sizzle and pop. Next add the onions and saute for a minute or two before adding the ginger garlic paste followed by the remaining masalas and pinch of salt. Remember to turn the flame to medium low to avoid the masalas from getting burnt.
5. Stir and add 1/3 cup water. Cook over low flame for 3 to 4 minutes, till the masalas are cooked and fragrant. Oil should start showing up along the sides of the vessel. Take off from flame, keep aside for the assembling.

Instruction For Assembling :

1. To assemble we need to start layering the dish. Take the serving dish and smear the bottom of the dish with a tablespoon or two of the beaten yoghurt.
2. Place half of the eggplants at the bottom and then pour half of the beaten yoghurt on it. With the help of a spatula or spoon distribute and evenly sprinkle half of the onion- masala tadka.
3. Repeat this once again. That is, place the remaining eggplants, followed by the remaining beaten yoghurt and lastly by the remaining tadka mix. Goes well with parathas, naan, kulchas or even with steamed and or pulao.