Grilled bengali eggplant

Grilled Bengali eggplant features smoky flavors paired with the rich spices of Bengali cuisine. This easy-to-prepare dish highlights eggplant's unique texture and taste, making it perfect for any meal.

19 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 eggplant
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp turmeric powder
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Grilled Bengali eggplant is a delicious and unique dish that combines the smoky flavor of grilled eggplant with the rich, savory notes of Bengali cuisine. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, it's a great way to enjoy eggplant in a whole new light.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
- Wash the eggplant thoroughly under running water and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even grilling.

2. Marinate the Eggplant:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, salt, and turmeric powder. Mix well to form a seasoned spice mixture.
- Add the eggplant slices to the bowl and toss them gently to coat each slice evenly with the spice mixture. Allow them to marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors to penetrate the eggplant and draws out some of the moisture.

3. Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and glowing.
- Lightly grease the grill grates with some of the vegetable oil to prevent the eggplant from sticking.

4. Grill the Eggplant:
- Once the grill is heated, arrange the marinated eggplant slices on the grill in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the grill; work in batches if necessary.
- Brush the top of the eggplant slices with a little vegetable oil.
- Grill the eggplant slices for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have lovely grill marks. Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of your slices and the heat of your grill.

5. Serve:
- Once grilled, remove the eggplant slices from the grill and place them on a serving platter.
- Optionally, you can drizzle some extra vegetable oil over the grilled eggplant for added moisture and flavor.
- Serve the grilled Bengali eggplant hot as a side dish or as a main course with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

Grilled Bengali eggplant is a delightful dish that is sure to please your taste buds. The combination of sweet, salty, and earthy flavors makes it a standout side or main dish. By following these tips and steps, you'll be able to create a perfect batch of grilled Bengali eggplant that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Grilled bengali eggplant FAQ:

How long should I grill the eggplant slices?

Grill the eggplant slices for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Adjust the time based on the thickness of the slices and the heat of your grill.

What can I use instead of turmeric in this recipe?

If you don't have turmeric, you can use curry powder as a substitute for a different flavor profile. However, it will change the taste and color of the dish.

Can I store leftover grilled eggplant?

Yes, you can store leftover grilled eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

What type of eggplant is best for grilling?

Asian or Italian eggplants are ideal for grilling due to their tender texture and fewer seeds. Regular globe eggplants can also be used.

How can I tell if the eggplant is fully grilled?

The eggplant should be tender when pierced with a fork and have distinct grill marks. If it feels firm, allow it to grill for a few more minutes.

Tips:

- Choose a fresh and firm eggplant to ensure the best texture and flavor.

- Make sure to evenly coat the eggplant slices with the seasoning for a consistent taste.

- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to ensure the eggplant cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.

- Use a grill basket or aluminum foil to prevent the eggplant slices from falling through the grill grates.

- Brush the eggplant with oil before grilling to prevent sticking and to add a nice charred flavor.

- For extra flavor, you can marinate the eggplant slices with the mixture for 30 minutes before grilling.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 70kcal
Protein 1.47g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 4.23g
Sugar 12g
Fat 30g

Grilled bengali eggplant