Green Brinjal (Barkur) Overview
Green Brinjal, also known as Barkur brinjal, is a type of small green eggplant native to certain regions of India, including Karnataka. Known for its tender flesh and mild, earthy flavor, this green brinjal is particularly suited to traditional dishes like curries, stir-fries, and stews, as well as unique modern recipes.
Health Benefits of Green Brinjal (Barkur)
- Rich in Fiber: Supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- High in Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants like nasunin, which protects cells from damage.
- Good for Heart Health: Rich in potassium and magnesium, aiding in blood pressure regulation.
- Low in Calories: Ideal for weight management due to its low calorie and high water content.
- Supports Brain Health: Contains phytonutrients that may enhance memory and prevent cell damage.
How to Eat Green Brinjal (Barkur)
- Roasted or Grilled: Adds a smoky flavor, ideal for salads or side dishes.
- Stuffed or Baked: Perfect for stuffing with spices and baking until tender.
- Curries and Sambar: Works well in Indian curries, sambars, and masala dishes.
- Stir-Fries: Adds a pleasant texture and mild flavor to stir-fries and quick sautés.
Nutritional Value (per 100 grams)
- Calories: 25 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5.9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Vitamin C: 3% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin K: 4% of the DV
- Potassium: 6% of the DV
- Magnesium: 3% of the DV
Taste Profile
Green Brinjal (Barkur) has a mild, slightly earthy flavor with a soft texture when cooked, making it suitable for absorbing the flavors of spices, herbs, and sauces. Its skin and flesh are tender, and it lacks the bitterness sometimes found in larger eggplant varieties.
Full Detailed Recipe: Traditional Green Brinjal Curry
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal (Barkur): 250 grams, diced
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Tomato: 1 large, finely chopped
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Coconut Milk: 1 cup
- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam Masala: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
- Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Coriander Leaves: for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté Onions and Spices: Heat oil in a pan, add onions, and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes soften.
- Cook Brinjal: Add diced green brinjal and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add Coconut Milk: Pour in coconut milk, cover, and simmer until the brinjal is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle garam masala, garnish with coriander leaves, and serve hot.
Indian Recipes with Green Brinjal (Barkur)
1. Brinjal Sambar
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 200 grams
- Toor Dal: 1/2 cup
- Tamarind Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Sambar Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Boil toor dal and set aside.
- Cook brinjal with tamarind paste and spices, add dal, and simmer until flavors meld.
2. Stuffed Green Brinjal (Bharwa Baingan)
Ingredients:
- Small Green Brinjals: 8
- Ground Peanuts: 2 tablespoons
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Stuff brinjals with peanut mixture and spices.
- Pan-fry until brinjals are cooked and tender.
3. Brinjal Chutney
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 200 grams, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Roast brinjal and garlic, blend with salt to make a chutney.
4. Brinjal and Potato Fry
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 150 grams, sliced
- Potato: 1, diced
- Curry Leaves: a few
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Fry brinjal and potato with curry leaves and salt until golden and crispy.
5. Brinjal and Coconut Stew
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 200 grams
- Coconut Milk: 1/2 cup
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Cook brinjal with coconut milk and salt until tender.
Non-Indian Recipes with Green Brinjal (Barkur)
1. Grilled Green Brinjal with Garlic
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 2, sliced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Brush brinjal slices with oil, sprinkle garlic powder, and grill until tender.
2. Eggplant Parmesan
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 1 large, sliced
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup
- Marinara Sauce: 1/2 cup
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Layer brinjal with marinara and cheese, bake until golden.
3. Roasted Green Brinjal Salad
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 1, cubed
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1/2 cup
- Feta Cheese: 1/4 cup
Instructions:
- Roast brinjal cubes, mix with tomatoes and feta.
4. Green Brinjal Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 1 cup, sliced
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
Instructions:
- Stir-fry brinjal in oil with soy sauce until tender.
5. Green Brinjal in Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients:
- Green Brinjal: 1 cup, cubed
- Tomato Sauce: 1/2 cup
- Basil: a few leaves
Instructions:
- Cook brinjal in tomato sauce, add basil, and simmer.
Conclusion
Green Brinjal (Barkur) is a versatile vegetable that can enhance a variety of dishes, both traditional and modern. Enjoy experimenting with it in your cooking!