Eggplant Bharta is a delicious and popular Indian dish that is made by roasting eggplant and then mashing it with various spices and ingredients. Traditionally, the eggplant is roasted over an open flame, which can be a time-consuming and messy process. However, with the advent of air fryers, roasting eggplant for Bharta has become quick and hassle-free. In this article, we will explore how to easily roast eggplant in an air fryer for a perfect Bharta.
Choosing the Right Eggplant
Before we delve into the process of roasting eggplant in an air fryer, it is important to choose the right eggplant for your Bharta. Look for eggplants that are firm, shiny, and free from blemishes. The ideal size for roasting in an air fryer is medium to large, as smaller eggplants may turn mushy during the cooking process.
Prepping the Eggplant
Once you have selected the perfect eggplant, the next step is to prep it for roasting. Start by washing the eggplant thoroughly under running water and then patting it dry with a paper towel. Trim off the stem of the eggplant, but leave the skin intact. Keeping the skin on will add a smoky flavor and beautiful char to your Bharta.
Piercing the Eggplant
To ensure even cooking and to prevent any potential explosions, it is important to pierce the eggplant with a fork before roasting. Gently poke the eggplant all over, creating small holes that will allow steam to escape during the cooking process.
Seasoning the Eggplant
Before placing the eggplant in the air fryer, it is time to season it with some salt and oil. Rub the eggplant with a generous amount of oil, such as olive or vegetable oil, and sprinkle it with salt. The oil will help the eggplant cook evenly and become tender, while the salt will enhance the flavor.
The Air Frying Process
Now that the eggplant is prepped and seasoned, it is time to roast it in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for a few minutes.
Placing the Eggplant in the Air Fryer
Carefully place the seasoned eggplant in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer has a grill or rack accessory, you can use it to elevate the eggplant and allow for more even cooking. However, if your air fryer does not have a grill or rack, simply place the eggplant directly on the basket.
Roasting Time
The roasting time will vary depending on the size of your eggplant and your desired level of char. However, as a general guideline, roast the eggplant for approximately 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, flip the eggplant to ensure even roasting on both sides.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the eggplant is done, gently press it with a fork. If it feels soft and tender, it is ready to be removed from the air fryer. Additionally, the skin of the eggplant should have a beautiful charred appearance.
Making the Bharta
Once the eggplant is roasted to perfection, it is time to make the Bharta. Allow the roasted eggplant to cool for a few minutes, then carefully remove the charred skin. The flesh of the eggplant should be soft and easily scoopable.
Mashing the Eggplant
Transfer the roasted eggplant to a mixing bowl and use a fork or masher to mash it. You can make the Bharta as chunky or as smooth as you prefer. Some people like to blend the roasted eggplant in a food processor for a silky texture, while others enjoy a more rustic and chunky consistency.
Adding Flavor and Spices
To enhance the flavor of your Bharta, it is time to add various spices and ingredients. Traditional Bharta recipes call for spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Additionally, you can add finely chopped onions, garlic, ginger, green chilies, and cilantro for a burst of freshness. Squeeze in some lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Tempering the Bharta
To elevate the flavors of your Bharta, you can temper it with some aromatic spices. In a small pan, heat some oil or ghee and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. Allow the spices to sizzle and release their flavors, then pour the tempering over your mashed eggplant mixture.
Serving and Enjoying the Bharta
The Bharta is now ready to be served and enjoyed. It pairs perfectly with roti, naan, or rice. Top it with a dollop of yogurt and garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness. Bharta can be served as a side dish or as a main course, and it is sure to impress your family and friends with its smoky and flavorful taste.
In conclusion, roasting eggplant in an air fryer for Bharta is a simple and convenient method that saves time and effort. By following these easy steps, you can achieve a perfectly roasted eggplant with a lovely charred flavor. Once mashed and seasoned with spices, you’ll have a delectable Bharta that will become a favorite in your kitchen. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy this classic Indian dish with a modern twist.