Baghare Baingan

Directions

1. 1
   Wash the eggplants and make deep slits (all the way through) along the length, taking care that the stem ends remain intact.
2. 2
   Place a nonstick wok over high heat and add 1 quart (800 ml) oil.
3. 3
   When small bubbles appear at the bottom of the wok, slide in the eggplants and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
4. 4
   Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. 5
   Set aside.
6. 6
   Add the onions to the hot oil and cook until golden.
7. 7
   Drain on paper towels and set aside.
8. 8
   Place a medium nonstick saute pan over medium heat.
9. 9
   Let it heat for 2 minutes.
10. 10
    Add the sesame seeds and dry-roast until lightly browned.
11. 11
    Transfer to a plate and set aside to cool.
12. 12
    Dry-roast the peanuts, poppy seeds, and coconut separately and set aside to cool.
13. 13
    Transfer the roasted ingredients to a mini food processor with 1/2 cup (100 ml) water and process to a fine paste.
14. 14
    Place a nonstick saute pan over medium heat and add 1/4 cup (50 ml) oil.
15. 15
    When small bubbles appear at the bottom of the pan, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fennel, kalonji, and fenugreek, and saute until lightly browned.
16. 16
    Add the curry leaves, ginger paste, garlic paste, and green chile paste.
17. 17
    Cook until the oil comes to the top.
18. 18
    Add the fried onions, turmeric, coriander, ground cumin, chile powder, and salt, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
19. 19
    Add the tamarind and jaggery, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
20. 20
    Add the coconut paste and cook until the oil comes to the top.
21. 21
    Lower the heat to low, add 1 cup (200 ml) water, and bring to a boil.
22. 22
    Add the fried eggplants and cook for 4 to 5 minutes.
23. 23
    Serve hot.