Ingredients:
For the Baingan Bharta:
– 1 large eggplant (brinjal)
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
– 2 tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
For the Pizza:
– Pizza dough or pre-made pizza crust
– Grated mozzarella cheese
– Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature for your pizza dough or crust.
2. Roast the eggplant: Prick the eggplant with a fork and rub it with a little oil. Place it on a baking sheet and roast it in the oven until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft. This can take around 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can roast it directly over a flame if you have a gas stove, turning it occasionally until it’s charred all over.
3. Once the eggplant is roasted, let it cool slightly, then peel off the charred skin and discard it. Mash the roasted eggplant flesh and set it aside.
4. In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
5. Add minced garlic and ginger to the onions and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and start to break down.
7. Add cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until the spices are well incorporated and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
8. Add the mashed eggplant to the tomato-spice mixture. Mix everything together and cook for a few more minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust salt and spices to taste.
9. Roll out your pizza dough or use a pre-made pizza crust. Place it on a baking sheet.
10. Spread the Baingan Bharta mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
11. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top of the Baingan Bharta.
12. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually about 12-15 minutes, but follow the instructions for your specific crust.
13. Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top for garnish.
14. Slice and serve your Baingan Bharta Pizza while it’s hot, and enjoy this fusion twist on a classic Indian dish!