Authentic South Indian Vangi Bath Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups Rice
1 large Eggplant
2 tablespoons Oil
1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
1 teaspoon Urad dal
1 teaspoon Chana dal
2 Dry red chilies
Few Curry leaves
A pinch of Asafoetida
1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons Vangi Bath masala powder
2 tablespoons Grated coconut
2 tablespoons Chopped coriander leaves
1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Steps and instructions

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice in a pot of boiling water until it is cooked but still firm. Drain the water and set the rice aside to cool.
While the rice is cooking, wash the eggplant and cut it into small cubes. Soak these cubes in water to prevent them from browning.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, dry red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Sauté these ingredients until they start to splutter.
Add the cubed eggplant to the pan and stir well. Cook the eggplant until it becomes soft, stirring occasionally.
Add the turmeric powder, salt, and Vangi Bath masala powder to the pan. Mix these ingredients well so that the eggplant is coated evenly.
Add the cooked and cooled rice to the pan. Mix the rice well with the eggplant and spices, making sure the rice is well coated with the masala.
Turn off the heat and add the grated coconut, chopped coriander leaves, and lemon juice. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Allow the Vangi Bath to sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve the Vangi Bath hot.

Tools for making

Pot - A large pot to cook the rice in boiling water.
Pan - A frying pan or skillet to cook the eggplant and spices.
Cutting board - A sturdy surface to chop the eggplant.
Knife - A sharp knife to cut the eggplant into small cubes.
Spatula - A utensil for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
Measuring spoons - To measure the oil, mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, and spices accurately.
Grater - To grate the coconut for garnishing.
Lemon squeezer - Optional. Use to extract lemon juice easily.

Recipe variations

Add roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture.
Include vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
Replace the eggplant with other vegetables like brinjal, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Add a tablespoon of tamarind paste for a tangy twist.
Sprinkle some roasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty flavor.
If you prefer a spicier version, increase the quantity of dry red chilies or add some red chili powder.
For a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white rice.
Replace the Vangi Bath masala powder with sambar powder or garam masala for a different taste profile.
Add grated ginger or garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
Garnish with fried onions or fried curry leaves for added crunch and aroma.

Recipe overview

Vangi Bath is a flavorful and wholesome South Indian dish made with eggplant and rice, cooked together with a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is a staple in many households and is known for its unique tangy and spicy flavor profile. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of preparing traditional Vangi Bath at home. The recipe involves cooking rice and eggplant separately, then combining them with a variety of spices including the key ingredient, Vangi Bath masala powder. The dish is then finished off with a sprinkle of grated coconut, a touch of lemon juice, and garnished with fresh coriander leaves. Allow the flavors to meld together for a few minutes before serving hot. This dish promises a burst of flavors with every spoonful, making it a perfect choice for a comforting lunch or dinner. Enjoy the process of cooking this South Indian delicacy and relish the delicious outcome!

Common questions

Can I use any type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of rice for this recipe. However, traditionally, short-grain rice like Sona Masuri or Basmati rice is used for Vangi Bath.
Can I substitute the eggplant with any other vegetable?
While the recipe is specifically for Vangi Bath, which uses eggplant as the main vegetable, you can experiment with other vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or cauliflower if you prefer.
Where can I find Vangi Bath masala powder?
Vangi Bath masala powder is readily available in Indian grocery stores. If you can't find it, you can also make your own by grinding together spices like coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, cinnamon, cloves, and dry red chilies.
Is Vangi Bath a spicy dish?
Vangi Bath does have some heat from the spices used, but it is not overly spicy. You can adjust the amount of red chilies or Vangi Bath masala powder to suit your taste.
Can I make Vangi Bath ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Vangi Bath ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a pan or microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cooking pot - for boiling the rice
Pan - for sautéing the ingredients
Knife - for cutting the eggplant
Cutting board - to provide a stable surface for cutting the eggplant
Spatula - for stirring and mixing the ingredients
Grater - for grating the coconut
Measuring spoons - to accurately measure the spices and lemon juice

Origin stories

Vangi Bath is a popular South Indian dish, specifically from the Karnataka region, known for its distinctive use of eggplant and a myriad of spices. It's often served during festivals and special occasions in the region. The term "Vangi" translates to eggplant in the local language, and "Bath" refers to a rice-based dish. What's really unique about this dish is the spice blend, or masala, used in its preparation. The Vangi Bath masala is a mix of various aromatic spices, which are typically dry roasted and then ground into a powder. This masala is what gives the dish its characteristic flavor and sets it apart from other rice dishes. The use of eggplant in a rice dish is also a unique feature, as this vegetable is usually used in curries or stir-fry dishes. The combination of eggplant with the unique spice blend results in a flavorful and satisfying dish that is loved by many.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.