Vangi Bath is a comforting, aromatic South Indian rice dish that celebrates the earthy sweetness of eggplant. The base of fluffy basmati rice is tempered with a fragrant blend of mustard seeds, cumin, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Golden-fried eggplant cubes are folded in, along with a coarse powder of toasted coconut and spices. The dish is brightened with fresh lemon juice and a hint of asafoetida for depth. It’s a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Ideal for weeknight dinners or as a substantial side dish at a potluck, this vegan and gluten-free meal comes together quickly using pantry staples. Serve it warm with a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut chutney for a complete, satisfying experience.
Vangi Bath
Description
Vangi Bath is a comforting, aromatic South Indian rice dish that celebrates the earthy sweetness of eggplant. The base of fluffy basmati rice is tempered with a fragrant blend of mustard seeds, cumin, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Golden-fried eggplant cubes are folded in, along with a coarse powder of toasted coconut and spices. The dish is brightened with fresh lemon juice and a hint of asafoetida for depth. It&# 226;ÂÂs a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Ideal for weeknight dinners or as a substantial side dish at a potluck, this vegan and gluten-free meal comes together quickly using pantry staples. Serve it warm with a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut chutney for a complete, satisfying experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Cook basmati rice until dry, fluffy, and light; set aside.
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Peel the eggplant and chop into 1-inch cubes.
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Sprinkle eggplant cubes with lemon juice and salt; let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
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Heat oil in a large pan; add coriander seeds, urad dal, dried red chilies, and cinnamon sticks.
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Fry spices until they turn dark golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
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Remove fried spices with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
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Add more oil to the pan if needed; add flaked coconut and fry until golden brown.
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Remove toasted coconut and drain on a paper towel.
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Add more oil to the pan; add drained eggplant cubes and fry until 3/4 cooked and slightly browned.
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Remove eggplant and keep warm.
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In a blender or grinder, combine the fried spices and toasted coconut; blend into a coarse powder.
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In a small pot, bring 1/4 cup water to a boil with turmeric powder, salt, and fresh lemon juice.
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Pour the turmeric-lemon water over the cooked rice and mix gently to coat evenly.
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Sprinkle the spice-coconut powder over the rice and mix until the rice is evenly colored.
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Add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) to the eggplant cubes if desired.
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Fold the fried eggplant cubes into the spiced rice.
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Taste and adjust salt and lemon juice as needed.
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Serve warm with yogurt raita or pachadi.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 6.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.8mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.5g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.8g4%
- Sugars 0.9g
- Protein 0.2g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.