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**Eggplant Chilli Powder Recipe**

 **Preparation Time:** 15 minutes 

**Cooking Time:** 25 minutes 

**Total Time:** 40 minutes 

**Servings:** 4

**Introduction:**

Eggplant Chilli Powder is a delightful South Indian dish that combines the tender texture of eggplant with a flavorful homemade spice blend. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and is an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. 

**Importance of Ingredients:**

- **Eggplant (Brinjal):** Known for its meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors, eggplant is a versatile vegetable that adds substance to vegetarian dishes.

- **Spices (Coriander Seeds, Red Chilli, Sesame Seeds):** These spices not only enhance the taste but also contribute to the dish's nutritional profile with antioxidants and essential nutrients.

- **Dry Coconut and Bengal Gram:** Provide texture and depth of flavor, making the dish more satisfying and flavorful.

- **Garlic:** Adds pungency and health benefits, including immune-boosting properties. 

**Occasions and Who Can Enjoy It:**

Eggplant Chilli Powder can be enjoyed on various occasions, from everyday meals to festive gatherings. It's suitable for vegetarians and vegans, making it a versatile option for diverse dietary preferences. 

**Benefits and Uses of Having This Recipe:**

  • This recipe offers a balanced mix of vegetables and spices, providing essential nutrients and antioxidants.
  • It can be served as a main dish with rice or as a side dish to complement a larger meal.
  • The homemade spice blend ensures freshness and allows you to adjust the spice level according to your preference. 

**Ingredients:**

  • Brinjal / Eggplant - 250gm
  • Onion - 1, finely chopped
  • Oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Bengal gram / Chana Dal - 3 tablespoons
  • Dry Coconut - 20gm, grated or chopped
  • Sesame Seeds - 5 tablespoons
  • Garlic - 10gm, chopped
  • Red Chilli - 10-15 (adjust to taste)
  • Coriander Seeds - 10gm
  • Roasted split chickpeas - 2 tablespoons
  • Turmeric Powder - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - as per taste

**Cooking Instructions:**

1. **Preparation of Spice Blend:**

  • Begin by dry roasting coriander seeds, Bengal gram (Chana Dal), sesame seeds, and dry coconut in a pan over medium heat. 
  • Stir continuously to ensure even roasting. Roast until they turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma, which enhances their flavors. Once roasted, transfer them to a plate and allow them to cool.

2. **Cooking the Eggplant:**

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced brinjal (eggplant) and fry until they become tender and lightly browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. 
  • Once done, remove the fried eggplant from the pan and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

3. **Preparing the Spice Powder:**

  • In a grinder or food processor, combine the cooled roasted spices (coriander seeds, Bengal gram, sesame seeds, dry coconut), chopped garlic, red chillies, roasted split chickpeas, turmeric powder, and salt.
  • Grind them into a fine powder. This aromatic spice blend forms the heart of the Eggplant Chilli Powder and will infuse the dish with its vibrant flavors.

4. **Cooking with Onions and Eggplant:**

  • In the same pan used for frying the eggplant, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium heat. 
  • Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

5. **Combining the Ingredients:**

  • Once the onions are caramelized, add the fried eggplant pieces back into the pan. 
  • Gently stir to combine, ensuring the eggplant is coated with the flavors from the onions and oil.

 6. **Final Assembly:**

  • Sprinkle the freshly ground spice powder over the onion and eggplant mixture in the pan.
  • Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and coat all the ingredients.
  • Adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary, according to your taste preferences.

7. **Serve:**

  • Once heated through and well combined, Eggplant Chilli Powder is ready to serve.
  • Transfer the dish to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh coriander leaves or grated coconut for added freshness and visual appeal.
  • Serve hot with steamed rice or any bread of your choice.

Tips:

  • Ensure the spices are roasted well but not burnt to maintain a balanced flavor profile.
  • Adjust the quantity of red chillies based on your spice tolerance.
  • You can store any leftover Eggplant Chilli Powder in an airtight container for future use. It stays well for several weeks if stored properly.

By following these detailed steps, you can recreate this flavorful Eggplant Chilli Powder dish at home. Enjoy the rich taste and aroma as you savor each bite with rice or your favorite accompaniment.

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of Eggplant Chilli Powder. Here are some guidelines on how to store it:

**Storage of Eggplant Chilli Powder:**

Once prepared, Eggplant Chilli Powder can be stored for future use. Here’s how to store it properly:

1. **Cooling Down:**

  • Allow the Eggplant Chilli Powder to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can lead to spoilage.

2. **Storage Containers:**

  • Transfer the cooled Eggplant Chilli Powder to an airtight container. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or plastic containers designed for food storage work well. Ensure the container is clean and dry before adding the powder.

3. **Refrigeration vs. Room Temperature:**

  • You can store Eggplant Chilli Powder either in the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on your preference and climate conditions:
  • **Refrigeration:** Storing in the refrigerator helps to prolong the shelf life of the powder. It can last for up to 2-3 weeks in the fridge.

  • **Room Temperature:** If storing at room temperature, ensure the storage area is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight. Use within 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness.

4. **Avoid Moisture:**

  • Moisture can cause the spice blend to clump or spoil. Keep the storage container tightly sealed to prevent moisture from entering.

5. **Labeling:**

  • Label the container with the date of preparation to track its freshness. This helps you know how long it has been stored and when it should be used by.

6. **Freezing (Optional):**

  • If you want to extend the shelf life further, you can freeze Eggplant Chilli Powder. Place small portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen Eggplant Chilli Powder can last for several months.

**Usage Tips:**

- **Bringing to Room Temperature:** If you store the powder in the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature before using. This ensures the flavors are fully revived.

- **Stir or Mix:** Before using the Eggplant Chilli Powder, give it a gentle stir or shake to evenly distribute any settled spices.

**Conclusion:**

By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your homemade Eggplant Chilli Powder stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. Whether stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature, proper storage practices help maintain its quality, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish whenever you desire.

**Health Benefits and Uses:**

  • Eggplant is low in calories and rich in fiber, antioxidants (especially nasunin in the purple skin), and vitamins such as folate and vitamin K.
  • It promotes heart health, aids digestion, and supports weight management. 
  • The spices used in this recipe offer additional health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties from turmeric and digestive benefits from garlic.

**Cooking Tips and Variations:**

  • **Spice Level:** Adjust the quantity of red chillies according to your spice tolerance. You can also deseed the chillies to reduce the heat.
  • **Texture:** For a smoother texture, grind the spices finely. For a coarser texture, pulse the grinder a few times to maintain some texture.
  • **Enhancements:** Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of tamarind pulp for a tangy twist to the dish.

**Nutritional Information (per serving):**

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg

**Presentation and Servings:**

  • Eggplant Chilli Powder can be presented elegantly in individual bowls or a communal serving dish, garnished with a sprig of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated coconut. 
  • It pairs perfectly with steamed rice, roti (Indian flatbread), or even as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. 
  • The vibrant colors and robust flavors make it a standout dish for any dining occasion.

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