Fire-roasted Eggplant Gothsu

Gothsu  (Gojju) is a fairly common tamarind-based fire-roasted eggplant dish in south India. As always, there is a general principle on what ingredients to be added in what proportion, but is always adjusted to each family's tastes. Some prefer a sprinkling of brown sugar to bring out the flavors  and add a mild sweetness, while others frown upon brown sugar in any of the spicy tamarind-based sambar and gothsu and other curries.

Fusion cuisine being my specialty, this dish did not confine itself to the bounds of traditional south Indian formula based on sambar powder.

Instead, Mekelesha and Mitmita spice powders from Ethiopia brought in that warmth and spiciness that gothsu is relished for.

It is rather fun to char the eggplant over open flame in my gas stove. For a blend of flavors, I went with fire-roasting some red and yellow bell peppers and pan-roasting cherry tomatoes for the recipe.

Ingredients
2 long Ichiban or Neon eggplant
1 red bell pepper
1 yellow bell pepper
10 cherry tomatoes
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
1 Tbsp finely grated ginger
2 Tbsp coconut oil
2 Tbsp tamarind concentrate
1 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp Mekelesha spice powder
1 tsp Mitmita spice powder
½ tsp turmeric powder
salt to taste

Preparation

1. Fire roast the eggplant, bell peppers, and roast the tomatoes in the oven or pan; allow to cool a little and dice finely
2. Heat the oil in a pan, add the onions, ginger, a pinch of salt, and turmeric powder; sauté
3. When onions are translucent, add the roasted veggies, tamarind, spice powders and brown sugar, stir to combine; add a splash of water as needed, cover, and allow to simmer till flavors meld
4. Taste and adjust flavors; garnish with scallions and cilantro
5. Serve warm with basmati rice or naan or roti