Discover the soulful taste of tradition with this *Heart-Healthy Chokha*, a modern twist on the classic Indian side dish. Bursting with smoky roasted eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic spices like cumin and turmeric, this recipe is a delightful medley of fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s gently sautéed in olive oil and finished with a zesty splash of lemon juice, making it as nourishing as it is flavorful. Perfect for a light, plant-based side dish or paired with whole-grain bread or roti for a satisfying meal, this dish embraces heart-smart cooking without compromising on taste. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an easy, gluten-free, and vegan option for those craving comfort food with a healthy twist.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash the eggplant and lightly prick it with a fork all over. Place it on a baking sheet.
Roast the eggplant in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft.
While the eggplant is roasting, chop the tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Mince the garlic and green chili.
Once the eggplant is done, let it cool slightly, then peel off the charred skin. Chop the flesh and set it aside.
Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green chili to the pan. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the chopped tomatoes and turmeric powder. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
Stir in the roasted eggplant flesh and salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and mix in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice.
Serve warm as a side dish or with whole grain bread or roti for a complete meal.
Calories |
423 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.9 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1970 mg | 86% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 66.2 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.7 g | 92% | |
| Total Sugars | 35.8 g | ||
| Protein | 11.3 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 166 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 5.4 mg | 30% | |
| Potassium | 2423 mg | 52% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.