Safed Achari Baingan Recipe - White Aubergine in pickled spices

Step 1: To begin making the Achari Baingan Recipe, we will first make the achari masala

Step 2: To prepare marinade for Achari masala, in a pan add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, nigella seed, carom seeds, fenugreek seeds and dry red chilies

Step 3: Dry roast the spices and chilies over medium heat till fragrant and slightly browned

Step 4: Turn off the heat

Step 5: Transfer spices to the jar of mixer and grind into a coarse powder

Step 6: Keep the achari powder aside

Step 7: Wash and clean baingan and keep aside

Step 8: Heat oil in a wok and add mustard and cumin seeds in it and wait till they crackle

Step 9: Add chopped onions and saute till raw smell goes off

Step 10: Now add ginger garlic paste and fry well till golden

Step 11: Now add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder and the achari masala along with chopped tomatoesSaute until the tomatoes soften

Step 12: Meanwhile slit the baingan from the middle into two but keep the joint intact

Step 13: This is done so that the masala gets inside the aubergine nicely while cooking

Step 14: Add the baingan in the fried masala and mix well such that everything incorporates well

Step 15: Add little amchur if required and stir well

Step 16: Add little water just to make sure the masala doesn't stick to the bottom of the heavy bottomed pan

Step 17: Add salt as per your taste and slow cook the baingan in low flame with lid closed

Step 18: Once the baingan softens, turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander and stir

Step 19: Serve the Safed Achari Baingan Recipe along with hot Phulkas smeared with ghee or along with hot steamed rice as a one dish dinner or a quick weeknight dinner