Baigan Choka (Roasted Eggplant (Aubergine)

Jun 07, 2023June 7, 20230 0

Traditional Baigan Choka recipe with a spicy kick

Baigan Choka (Roasted Eggplant (Aubergine)

by The Chefin Vegetarian

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 large eggplant
	4 garlic cloves
	1 medium tomatoes ( seeded and cut into 6 wedges )
	1/4 cup onion , finely chopped
	2 teaspoons vegetable oil
	1/8 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper ( minced ) ( optional )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

Sugar

Fat

Baigan Choka, also known as roasted eggplant, is a popular dish in Trinidad and Tobago. This recipe is a traditional version of the dish, with a spicy kick from the optional scotch bonnet pepper. The roasted eggplant is combined with garlic, onion, and tomato to create a flavorful and healthy vegetarian dish. Baigan Choka is often served as a side dish or main course with roti or rice, and is a staple in Trinidadian and Tobagonian cuisine.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2.	Poke holes into the eggplant with a fork, then roast it in the oven until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft, about 20-30 minutes.
3.	Remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool enough to handle, then peel off the skin and discard it.
4.	In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat, then add the minced scotch bonnet pepper, onion, and garlic cloves. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5.	Add the roasted eggplant to the pan and stir to combine it with the onion and garlic mixture.
6.	Add the tomato wedges and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
7.	Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
8.	Serve immediately as a side dish or main course.

PROS

Baigan Choka is a flavorful and healthy vegetarian dish that is easy to prepare.

This recipe has a spicy kick from the scotch bonnet pepper and is bursting with flavor from the roasted eggplant, garlic, and tomatoes.

CONS

This recipe can be a bit spicy for those who don’t like heat, but the scotch bonnet pepper is optional and can be omitted.

Some people may not enjoy the texture of eggplant, but the roasting process can help soften the flesh and make it more palatable.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is a nutrient-rich vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber.
It contains antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage and may also have anti-inflammatory properties.
Garlic is known to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, and may also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.