Eggplant Bhartha is a popular Indian dish made from roasted and mashed eggplant, seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs. One package of Eggplant Bhartha, weighing 311 g, contains approximately 300 calories.
In addition to its great taste, Eggplant Bhartha has many nutritional benefits, including high levels of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The main ingredients in Eggplant Bhartha include eggplant, tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices that vary from recipe to recipe.
In this article, we'll explore the ingredients and preparation of Eggplant Bhartha, as well as its nutritional value and health benefits.
What is Eggplant Bhartha?
Eggplant Bhartha is a vegetarian dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is made by roasting whole eggplants and removing their skin and then mashing them to a pulp. The mashed eggplant is then cooked with spices and herbs, such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, until it is fragrant and flavorful. Eggplant Bhartha has a unique, smoky flavor and is often served with flatbread or rice. It is a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking for a healthy and tasty meat-free meal.
Ingredients in Eggplant Bhartha
The main ingredients in Eggplant Bhartha include:
- Eggplant
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala)
Some recipes may also include additional ingredients such as green chilies, peas, or cilantro.
How is Eggplant Bhartha prepared?
Eggplant Bhartha is a relatively simple dish to prepare. Here are the basic steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
- Prick the eggplants several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast the eggplants for 40-50 minutes, until they are tender and the skin is charred.
- Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool. Once the eggplants are cool enough to handle, remove the skin and mash the pulp with a fork or potato masher.
- In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, ginger, and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add the spices and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the mashed eggplant and mix well. Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the flavors have melded together and the dish is heated through.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice or flatbread.
Serving Size of Eggplant Bhartha
One package of Eggplant Bhartha, weighing 311 g, contains approximately 2 servings (based on a standard serving size of 150 g). The dish is often served as a side dish or as part of a larger meal, so the servings may vary depending on how it is incorporated into your meal.
Nutritional Value of Eggplant Bhartha
Here are the nutritional values of one serving (150 g) of Eggplant Bhartha:
- calories: 150
- Total fat: 8 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Dietary fiber: 8 g
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Potassium: 540 mg
Calories in Eggplant Bhartha
One serving (150 g) of Eggplant Bhartha contains approximately 150 calories. The dish is relatively low in calories due to its high fiber and low-fat content. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the recipe and serving size.
Fat Content of Eggplant Bhartha
One serving (150 g) of Eggplant Bhartha contains approximately 8 g of total fat, most of which comes from healthy unsaturated fats such as canola oil, which is often used in the recipe. Eggplant Bhartha is a great low-fat option for a tasty vegetarian meal.
Protein in Eggplant Bhartha
One serving (150 g) of Eggplant Bhartha contains approximately 3 g of protein. While relatively low in protein, the dish can be paired with other high-protein foods like lentils, tofu or chickpeas to create a nutritionally balanced meal.
Carbohydrates in Eggplant Bhartha
One serving (150 g) of Eggplant Bhartha contains approximately 19 g of carbohydrates, including 8 g of dietary fiber and 10 g of sugar. The high-fiber content of the dish makes it a healthy and filling option for those looking to increase their fiber intake.
Health Benefits of Eggplant Bhartha
Eggplant Bhartha is a healthy and nutritious dish that offers a range of health benefits, including:
- High in fiber, which can aid in digestion and improve heart health
- Low in calories and fat, making it a good option for weight management
- Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium
- May have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease
FAQ about Eggplant Bhartha
1. What is Eggplant Bhartha?
Eggplant Bhartha is a popular Indian dish made from roasted eggplant, tomato, onion, and various spices.
2. How many calories are in one package of Eggplant Bhartha?
One package (311 g) of Eggplant Bhartha contains approximately 300 calories.
3. Is Eggplant Bhartha vegan-friendly?
Yes, Eggplant Bhartha is a vegan-friendly dish as it does not contain any animal products.
4. How should Eggplant Bhartha be stored?
Eggplant Bhartha should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days of opening. It can also be frozen for up to a month.
5. How can Eggplant Bhartha be served?
Eggplant Bhartha can be served as a side dish with rice or bread, or as a main course with additional vegetables or protein like tofu or chickpeas.