Eggplant Masala (Brinjal Masala)

Grind the first 6 ingredients into a smooth paste. Cut the top from the egg plant and split it into 4. Heat oil in pan add mustard seeds.

When it starts to pop add cumin seeds. Then add the egg plant and fry for few minutes.

Then add the ground masala paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, asafetida and salt.

Mix well and pour little water. Lower the heat and cook until the egg plant is done and the gravy becomes thick. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.