Badimjan Pürü
Badimjan Pürü is a delightful eggplant dish that originates from the Caucasus region, particularly popular in Azerbaijan. This flavorful and creamy dish is a staple in many Azerbaijani households and often served during festive times. The word 'Pürü' refers to purée, capturing the essence of this dish's smooth and luscious texture, primarily made with eggplant and rich spices.
Ingredients
- Eggplant - 2 large
- Yogurt - 1 cup
- Garlic - 2 cloves
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Ground Coriander - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Lemon Juice - 1 tablespoon
Preparation
Step 1: Roasting the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Begin by thoroughly washing the eggplant and patting it dry. Poke several holes into the eggplant using a fork to allow steam to escape. Place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes or until they are soft and the skin is charred. For more precise timing, consider using a cooking timer.
Step 2: Preparing the Base
While the eggplant is roasting, peel and finely chop the garlic. In a small bowl, mix the chopped garlic, yogurt, ground coriander, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Making the Puree
Once the eggplant is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Peel off the charred skin and discard it. In a large bowl, mash the softened eggplant flesh with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Combine it with the yogurt mixture and stir well to ensure an even blend.
Step 4: Final Touches
Transfer the blended mixture to a serving dish. Drizzle with an additional tablespoon of olive oil for a glossy finish. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for added color and aroma.
Enjoying Badimjan Pürü
Badimjan Pürü is best served as a warm or cold side dish. It pairs excellently with freshly baked bread or as an accompaniment to grilled meats. For an authentic Azerbaijani experience, serve it during family gatherings or celebrations as part of a larger feast. The creamy texture and rich flavors of the eggplant combined with yogurt make it an irresistibly smooth dish that's perfect for sharing. Relish in the taste of tradition with each bite!