Brinjal Dishes Chawal (Brinjal Rice Recipe)
Brinjal, commonly known as eggplant or aubergine, is a much-loved vegetable in Indian kitchens because of its ability to absorb spices and flavors beautifully. From curries to stir-fries, brinjal adapts easily to different regional cooking styles. One such comforting and flavorful dish is Brinjal Dishes Chawal, also known as Brinjal Rice or Baingan Chawal.
This dish is a perfect blend of soft, spiced brinjal pieces mixed with aromatic rice, making it a wholesome one-pot meal. It is especially popular as a lunchbox recipe and is a great way to transform leftover rice into something exciting. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying, brinjal chawal is ideal for busy weekdays as well as relaxed weekend meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ cups cooked rice (cooled, preferably long-grain or sona masoori)
- 2–3 medium brinjals, chopped into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons oil (sesame oil or vegetable oil)
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green chilli, slit
- Salt to taste
Spice Powders
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1½ teaspoons coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp (or lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts or cashews (optional)
How to Make Brinjal Dishes Chawal
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Cook the rice separately and spread it on a wide plate to cool completely. Using cooled rice helps keep the grains separate and prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Leftover rice works best.
Step 2: Prepare the Brinjal
Chop the brinjals into small cubes and soak them in water with a little salt. This prevents discoloration and removes any bitterness.
Step 3: Tempering
Heat oil in a pan or kadai. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and green chilli. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook Onion and Brinjal
Add sliced onions and sauté until translucent. Drain the brinjal pieces and add them to the pan. Cook on medium heat for 7–8 minutes until the brinjals turn soft and slightly golden.
Step 5: Add Spices
Lower the flame and add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes until the spices blend nicely with the brinjal.
Step 6: Add Tanginess
Add tamarind pulp and mix well. Let the mixture cook for 2–3 minutes until the masala thickens and coats the brinjals evenly.
Step 7: Mix the Rice
Add the cooled rice gently to the pan. Mix carefully so that the rice grains remain intact. Sprinkle garam masala and roasted peanuts or cashews.
Step 8: Final Rest
Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 5 minutes. Switch off the flame and let the brinjal chawal rest for another 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Best Brinjal Rice
- Always use cooled or leftover rice for best texture.
- Small purple brinjals taste better and cook faster.
- Sesame oil adds authentic South Indian flavor.
- Adjust spice levels according to your taste.
- Do not overcook brinjal, as it may turn mushy.
Variations
- South Indian Style: Add freshly ground spice paste with dry red chillies and coriander seeds.
- Maharashtrian Version: Use goda masala instead of garam masala.
- Healthy Option: Replace white rice with brown rice or millet rice.
- Jain Version: Skip onion and add more peanuts for flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve brinjal dishes chawal hot with:
- Plain curd or onion raita
- Papad or roasted appalam
- Lemon wedges or pickle
This dish also tastes great the next day, making it ideal for lunchboxes.
Health Benefits
Brinjal is rich in fiber and antioxidants that support digestion and heart health. Combined with rice and spices, this dish provides energy, warmth, and comfort while remaining light on the stomach.
Conclusion
Brinjal Dishes Chawal is a simple yet flavorful rice recipe that proves how everyday ingredients can create something truly delicious. Whether you are using leftover rice or cooking fresh, this brinjal rice recipe is easy, satisfying, and perfect for home-style meals. Once you try it, it will surely become a regular part of your kitchen rotation.
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