The humble eggplant, known as baigan in India, is celebrated globally for its culinary versatility and health benefits. A recent list by the food guide Taste Atlas, ranking the '100 Best Rated Dishes with Eggplant', has brought good news for Indian cuisine, with two beloved preparations securing their spots among global favourites.
Indian Classics Earn Global Acclaim
In the prestigious global ranking, Baingan Bharta secured the 49th position, while Aloo Baingan was placed at 71st. This recognition highlights the widespread appeal of these vegetarian staples beyond the Indian subcontinent.
According to Taste Atlas, Baingan Bharta is a smoky, flavourful side dish invented by the Punjabis. It is made from minced and grilled eggplants combined with coriander, onion, chilies, and mustard oil. The dish's rich aroma made it a winter favourite, and it eventually crossed Punjab's borders to gain popularity across India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is traditionally enjoyed with flatbreads like roti or with rice.
Aloo Baingan, as the name suggests, is a dry curry (sabzi) that brings together potatoes (aloo) and eggplants (baingan) with a medley of onions, tomatoes, and spices. This comforting dish is a common feature in North Indian lunch boxes and is typically served with roti or naan.
A Global Tour of Eggplant Delights
The Taste Atlas list is a testament to the vegetable's global journey. Topping the chart at number one is Italy's Pasta 'ncasciata, a baked Sicilian pasta dish with fried eggplant cubes, cheese, and bechamel sauce.
Other notable entries include Lebanon's creamy Baba Ghanoush at 15th place, a cold spread of cooked eggplant with tahini and garlic. Bangladesh's Beguni, crispy fritters made with eggplant slices dipped in spiced rice and gram flour batter, ranked 31st. From the Pacific island of Guam, Pado'lalo' at 100th place offers a unique blend of grilled eggplant with coconut milk and local peppers.
Why Eggplant Deserves the Spotlight
Beyond taste, the eggplant's inclusion in diverse cuisines is backed by its nutritional profile. It is a low-calorie vegetable rich in fibre, antioxidants like nasunin, and essential minerals. These nutrients are known to support heart health and promote a healthy gut. Its subtle, slightly sweet flavour makes it a perfect canvas for both bold Indian spices and simpler seasonings used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking.
This global ranking not only celebrates specific dishes but also underscores the eggplant's role as a culinary bridge, connecting cultures through shared, delicious traditions.
