Easy Lemon Coconut Eggplant Rice (Vangi Bath) Recipe Is Rich In Flavours And Perfect For Any Occasion

Lemon Coconut Eggplant Rice, also known as Vangi Bath, is a delightful South Indian dish that perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. This dish is a wonderful blend of rice, eggplants, coconut, and a mix of aromatic spices, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a burst of flavors in every bite. Here's how you can make this delectable Lemon Coconut Eggplant Rice at home.

Serves- 4-5
Prep Time- 10 mins
Cook Time- 40 mins
Total Time- 50 mins

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480 ml) long-grain rice, cooked
• 2 ½ tsp salt
• 1 medium eggplant, peeled and chopped into ½-inch (1 cm) cubes
• Vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp whole coriander seeds
• 2 tsp yellow split peas
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1¾-inch (4 cm) stick of cinnamon
• 3 tbsp dried unsweetened coconut
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp turmeric

How To Prepare

1. Place the eggplant into a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Mix well and allow to sit for half an hour, then rinse lightly and allow to drain.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over a medium flame. Add the coriander seeds, split peas, cumin, and cinnamon. Stir well. When the spices have darkened, remove them and place on a plate lined with a paper towel.

3. In the same pan, fry the coconut, stirring constantly. When it turns golden-brown, remove and place on the paper towel.

4. In another skillet, sauté the eggplant until it is cooked through. It should turn a bruised dark brown. Be careful not to add too much oil in the process. Remove, set aside, and keep warm.
5. Put the dried spices into a mortar and grind into a fine powder. A well-cleaned coffee grinder works well as a substitute.

6. In a small pot, combine the lemon juice, ½ teaspoon salt, turmeric, and 2 tablespoons water. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat and allow to simmer for 3 minutes.
7. In a skillet, add the cooked rice and the eggplant and sauté with very little oil. Mix well. Allow the mixture to cool. Add 2 more tablespoons of vegetable oil; mix well. Add the coconut-spice mixture and the lemon mixture. Mix well and serve at room temperature.

Nutritional Values

Lemon Coconut Eggplant Rice (Vangi Bath) is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the best of South Indian flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Enjoy this traditional yet innovative recipe, and bring a taste of South India to your dining table.