Recipe of the Day: Gutti Vankaya Kura (Stuffed Brinjal Curry – Andhra Style)

Stuffed Brinjal Curry | Gutti Vankaya Kura

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins
Serves: 4

🧺 Ingredients:

For the masala stuffing:

• 6–8 small brinjals (vankaya)

• 2 tbsp peanuts

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (nuvvulu)

• 2 tbsp grated dry coconut

• 1 tbsp coriander seeds

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)

• 3–4 dry red chilies

• 1 medium onion (chopped)

• 3 garlic cloves

• 1-inch ginger

• Salt to taste

• 1/2 tsp turmeric

• Tamarind pulp – 1 tbsp (or a small lemon-sized ball soaked in water)

For tempering:

• 2 tbsp oil

• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds

• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds

• Few curry leaves

• 1 chopped onion (optional)

🍳 Instructions:

1. Prepare the brinjals:

   • Wash and slit the brinjals in an 'X' shape without cutting fully. Keep the stalk intact.

   • Soak in salted water to avoid discoloration.

2. Roast the masala:

   • In a dry pan, roast peanuts, sesame seeds, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, poppy seeds, and red chilies until golden and aromatic.

   • Let them cool, then grind with coconut, onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and tamarind pulp into a thick paste. Add little water as needed.

3. Stuff the brinjals:

   • Carefully fill each brinjal with the masala paste. Keep the remaining paste aside.

4. Cook the curry:

   • Heat oil in a deep pan. Add mustard, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and chopped onion (if using).

   • Gently place the stuffed brinjals in the pan. Sauté for 5 minutes on medium heat.

   • Add the leftover masala paste and 1/2 cup water. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally, until brinjals are soft and oil separates.

5. Garnish & serve:

   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

   • Serve hot with steamed rice or jowar roti.