Vangi Bath, Maharashtrian Rice with Baingan Video by Tarla Dalal

Heat the oil in a small non-stick pan, add the onions and sauté on a medium flame for 2 minutes. Remove and keep aside.
In the same small non-stick pan, add the coconut and sauté on a medium flame for 2 minutes. Remove and keep aside.
In the same small non-stick pan, add the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, star anise and cinnamon and sauté on a medium flame for 1 minute.
Combine all the sautéed ingredients along with the curry leaves and ¼ cup of water in a mixer and blend till smooth. Keep aside.

How to proceed to make vangi bath

To make vangi bath, heat the oil in a deep non-stick pan, add the cloves, bayleaf, cardamom and peppercorn and sauté on a medium flame for 30 seconds.
Add the brinjal and sauté on a medium flame for 4 minutes.
Add the prepared paste and 2 tbsp water, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 1 minute, while stirring continuously.
Add the chilli powder, turmeric powder, garlic paste, ginger paste, 5 tbsp of water and salt, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 1 minute.
Add the rice and coriander, mix gently and cook on a medium flame for 2 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
Serve the vangi bath hot.