Anjali's 'Baigan Bharta'

Dehradun, India

This is a much loved dish which often finds its way to family gatherings. The smoked mashed aubergines create a deep smoky flavour which balances the spicyness from the chillis and the sourness from the tomatoes. The spices 'cook out' to bring out the intense flavour and heat, which is carried through the whole dish, making each bite a taste of all the ingredients. This must be served with plenty of fresh chapattis or parathas and eaten using hands. 

Making this dish savours the classic flavours of home, especially of mum's version of Baigan Bharta, which is by far the best. It brings back memories of childhood and adolescence when it would be shared at school during lunchtime with other classmates and eaten with bread. On the other hand, it was always eaten with close family and relatives and is 'loved by every single person'.