by Ringan no Oro, also known as Baingan Bharta in other parts of India, is a traditional Gujarati dish made from roasted eggplant (ringan) mashed with spices and aromatics. This smoky, tangy, and mildly spiced preparation is a staple in Gujarati cuisine, often enjoyed with bhakri, roti, or rice. Whether you’re celebrating Gujarat’s rustic flavors or seeking a comforting veggie dish, this detailed Ringan no Oro recipe will guide you to create this savory delight at home. Let’s roast some goodness!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
(Includes roasting the eggplant)
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
(Cooking the masala and combining)
Total Time
- 35 minutes
(A smoky dish in no time!)
Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)
This recipe serves approximately 4 people (about 3-4 cups). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below:
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 20g (from eggplant and tomatoes)
- Sodium: 1200mg (varies based on salt content)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (completely cholesterol-free!)
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 25% of Daily Value (DV) (from tomatoes)
- Vitamin C: 40% of DV (from tomatoes and chilies)
- Iron: 15% of DV
- Magnesium: 20% of DV
Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands.
Ingredients
For the Ringan no Oro:
- 2 large eggplants (ringan/baingan) – about 600-700g total
- 2 medium tomatoes – finely chopped
- 1 medium onion – finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste – or grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon green chili paste – or 1-2 chopped green chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – for color
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder – adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds – for tempering
- 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida) – enhances flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt – or to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for cooking
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves – finely chopped, for garnish
Equipment Needed:
- Tongs or fork (for roasting eggplant)
- Gas stove or oven (for roasting)
- Mixing bowl
- Pan or kadhai
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Eggplant
- Rinse 2 large eggplants and pat them dry. Prick the surface with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape during roasting.
- Roast the eggplants directly over an open gas flame, turning frequently with tongs, for 10-12 minutes until the skin is charred and the flesh softens. (Alternatively, roast in an oven at 200°C/400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.)
- Once roasted, let them cool slightly, then peel off the charred skin. Mash the soft flesh with a fork or masher in a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Masala
- Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a pan or kadhai over medium heat.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds and 1/4 teaspoon hing, letting them sizzle for 30 seconds.
- Add 1 chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon ginger paste and 1 teaspoon green chili paste, cooking for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add 2 chopped tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
- Add the mashed eggplant to the masala mixture and mix well to combine.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes on low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly. Adjust salt or spices to taste.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Turn off the heat and garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with bhakri, roti, or steamed rice, paired with a dollop of ghee or yogurt for a complete Gujarati meal!
Benefits of Ringan no Oro
Ringan no Oro is a flavorful dish with plenty of nutritional perks! Here’s why it’s a great choice:
- Fiber-Rich: Eggplant provides dietary fiber for digestion and fullness.
- Low-Calorie: A light veggie dish that’s easy on the waistline.
- Vitamin Boost: Tomatoes and chilies add vitamins A and C for immunity.
- Antioxidant Properties: Eggplant and spices offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Heart-Healthy: Minimal oil keeps it light and nutritious.
- Rustic Comfort: A smoky, satisfying dish that warms the soul!
