17 Best Indian Eggplant Recipes We Adore

Whether you call them eggplants, aubergines, or brinjals, these easy and delicious Indian eggplant recipes are by far the best ways to cook them.

They’re super nutritious, crazy versatile, and pair well with everything from creamy curry to crunchy samosas.

Whether you’re looking for a simple vegetarian Indian dinner or something more elaborate, there’s bound to be a recipe here to tantalize your tastebuds! 

And while these Indian eggplant recipes are ideal for vegans and vegetarians, you can easily throw in some tender chicken for a boost of protein if you like.

Easy Baingan Bharta Recipe and More!

1. Eggplant Curry – South Indian Brinjal Curry

This curry recipe is made with fresh eggplants, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices.

And guess what? It’s also vegan!

The spices in this recipe are out of this world! But, while I think they’re perfectly balanced, you can always customize them to your liking.

Of course, no Indian dish is complete without some rice or naan. So, add some to the side and dig in.

2. Portobello and Indian Eggplant Sliders with Spicy Avocado Ranch Dressing

These spicy eggplant avocado sliders are the perfect party food. They’re easy to make, healthy, and delicious.

Portobello mushrooms provide a hearty, meaty texture, while the eggplant brings a touch of sweetness. 

Meanwhile, you’ll make Ranch dressing with avocado, which gives it a rich, creamy consistency. Yum!

3. Baingan Bharta

Baingan bharta is made by mincing eggplant and sautéing it with onions, tomatoes, and spices. 

Often served with rice or roti, it can also be used as a stuffing for pies and samosas or eaten on its own.

All you need are a few ingredients and a little bit of time, and you will have a delicious meal that everyone will love.

4. Bharwa Baingan – Stuffed Eggplant

Bharwa baingan (stuffed eggplant) is a classic Indian dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make. 

You’ll stuff eggplant with a mixture of spices, onions, and tomatoes, then cook it in oil until it’s tender and the filling is cooked through.

Bharwa baingan can be served as a side dish or main course and pairs well with rice, naan, or roti.

5. Beguni/Eggplant Fritters

To make eggplant fritters, you’ll coat slices in a batter of chickpea flour, rice flour, and spices, then fry them until golden brown and crispy.

I like to use long eggplants because they’re less bitter and have a more delicate flavor. I recommend serving these fritters with tasty homemade chutney.

6. Brinjal Pickle (Eggplant Relish/ Aubergine Chutney)

This Brinjal pickle recipe is the perfect way to use up pesky aubergines that might be a little past their best

Pickling preserves their flavor and allows you to keep them for longer.

And if you’ve never tried pickling before, don’t worry. This recipe is easy to follow and produces delicious results.

7. Smoky Eggplant Curry Dip

Easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a hit with your guests, this dip is just what your next party needs. 

The eggplant is roasted until tender and smoky, then combined with a fragrant curry paste to create a truly mouthwatering dish. 

Serve it with crispy pita chips or veggie crudités for dipping.

Be warned: your guests will ask for the recipe, so be sure to have a few copies on hand!

8. Vankaya Masala Koora

This is a traditional Indian recipe that’s often served as a side dish.

Made with eggplant and a variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, I think it’s best with rice or roti. 

9. South Indian Eggplant Curry Baked

If you’re in the mood for something spicy, this recipe is for you.

Packed with flavor, the eggplant provides such a unique texture that’s sure to please your palate. 

The best part about this curry is that it is baked, not fried, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

So spice up your life and give this recipe a try tonight. You won’t be disappointed.

10. Chickpea & Eggplant Curry

Chickpeas and eggplants are two of the most versatile and delicious ingredients out there.

And when these two ingredients come together in a curry, the result is truly magical.

Simply sauté the eggplant and chickpeas in a pan, then add them to a pot of simmering coconut milk and spices.

In no time at all, you’ll have a fragrant and flavorful curry that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

11. Dahi Baigan

Dahi Baigan is a delicious Indian dish that needs just a few simple steps.

It’s essential to cut the eggplant into small pieces and soak them in water for about an hour. This will help to soften it and make it easier to cook. 

Then you can fry it until golden and add creamy, tangy yogurt and a few spices.

I like to garnish it with cilantro and serve it with rice.

12. Tamarind Eggplant

Tamarind eggplant is a popular dish in many Asian countries. And I just know you’ll fall for it too!

The eggplant is first fried until it’s soft and then simmered in a crazy-indulgent tamarind sauce. 

The tamarind adds a tangy flavor to the dish, while the eggplant provides a slightly sweet and earthy taste.

The result is a sweet and sour dish that’s both delicious and easy to make.

13. Eggplant Onion Curry

This eggplant onion curry is so good, you might have to fight for seconds.

Sautéed in oil with tomato and ginger, the veggies become delightfully tender.

Add some spices, and your whole kitchen will smell like heaven.

Don’t forget to make some homemade naan – it’s the perfect match for this dish.

14. Tandoori Eggplant

If you love eggplant and you love Indian food, then you’ll go ga-ga for this recipe! 

There are a few things to keep in mind when making it, though.

First, make sure to use a firm and fresh eggplant. It will fall apart on the grill or in the oven if it’s too soft. 

Second, be generous with the tandoori spice blend. You’ll be surprised at how mild it becomes when cooked.

And finally, don’t overcook the dish. It should be tender but not mushy.

15. Hyderabadi Bagara Baingan

Hyderabadi cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, and this recipe is no exception. 

Featuring eggplant simmered in a spiced tomato and onion gravy, it might take some time to prepare, but it’s well worth the effort. 

So if you’re looking for a truly unique and flavorsome dish, look no further than this Hyderabadi Bagara Baingan.

16. Indian-Style Roasted Eggplant Parmesan

This might look like your average eggplant parm, but there’s a world of spice hiding in the dish.

Between the red pepper flakes, turmeric, and garam masala, the tomato sauce packs a punch!

It’s such a fun take on a classic Italian dinner.

17. Curried Okra and Eggplant with Chick Peas

If you’re craving something bold and flavorful, here’s one recipe you don’t want to miss.

Chickpeas make this earthy dish extra hearty and protein-packed.

Meanwhile, the cilantro garnish provides a freshness that balances out the flavors just right.

I like to serve this over steamed rice or with naan bread for a complete meal.

If you want to make it vegan, skip the yogurt entirely, or add a vegan alternative (silken tofu works wonders!).