Baby Eggplant Stir-Fry (Kathirikkai Poriyal): A Flavorful South Indian Recipe

40 minutes

962 reads

4.50 from 4 votes

About Baby Eggplant Stir-Fry (Kathirikkai Poriyal): A Flavorful South Indian Recipe

This vibrant Baby Eggplant Stir-Fry, or Kathirikkai Poriyal, is a delightful twist on a traditional South Indian recipe. Inspired by fresh, homegrown eggplants, this recipe infuses classic flavors with a unique spice blend for an unforgettable taste. It's a perfect balance of home-style comfort and innovative culinary flair.
The combination of onions, mustard seeds, and curry leaves creates an irresistible aroma, while the carefully chosen spices deliver a complex and lingering flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delicious results.
Serve this delicious stir-fry hot with steamed rice and sambar for a complete and satisfying meal. It also makes a fantastic side dish for any occasion!
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Recipe Time & More

Prep15 minutes
Cook25 minutes
Total40 minutes
Calories173 kcal
Serves5
Served AsLunch

Ingredients
 

Eggplant & Aromatics

  • 500 gm Eggplant also known as brinjal; baby eggplants preferred, but any variety works
  • 1 Onion finely chopped, medium-sized
  • 1 bunch Curry Leaves

Spices

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Yogurt plain yogurt or curd
  • 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 3 tbsp Oil vegetable or coconut oil
  • 1 cup Water
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Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Chop the eggplants lengthwise into thin slices. Soak them in a bowl of water for at least 15 minutes.
  • Peel and finely chop the onion.
  • Dry roast cumin, fennel, and fenugreek seeds in a pan until fragrant. Let cool slightly, then coarsely crush using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

Stir-frying the Eggplant

  • Heat oil in a kadai or large pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and split black gram; cook until they splutter.
  • Add curry leaves and cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
  • Drain the water from the eggplants and add them to the pan along with turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Stir well until the raw smell disappears.
  • Add the crushed spice mixture (cumin, fennel, and fenugreek) and garam masala. Stir well and cook until fragrant.
  • Pour in one cup of water, bring to a boil, then cover and cook until the eggplants are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Stir in the yogurt and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Serving

  • Transfer the stir-fry to a serving bowl. Serve hot with steamed rice and sambar, or as a side dish with your favorite meal.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Baby Eggplant Stir-Fry:

  • Soaking the eggplants helps to remove any bitterness and prevents them from becoming too oily during cooking.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred spice level. For a milder dish, reduce the quantity.
  • If you don't have a kadai, a large, deep skillet or wok will work perfectly.
  • For a richer flavor, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.
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4.50 from 4 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 173kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 13gFat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.6gMonounsaturated Fat: 7.2gSodium: 684mgSugar: 1g

Madraasi Deepa
Madraasi Deepa

Full-time blogger, mother, food reviewer, product reviewer, and lover of exploring historical places and fashion.

Articles: 146
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4.50 from 4 votes

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