Tamil Feasts Eggplant Curry

Serves 4-5

Ingredients

1 branch of curry leaves
½ tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp turmeric powder
200mL coconut milk
2 Tbsp cooking oil
3 large eggplants
1 onion, finely chopped
juice of 1 lemon
salt to taste

Summary

UPDATE – Tamil Feasts was a social enterprise that served up traditional Sri Lankan fare at CERES for six wonderful years. Prepared by Tamil men seeking asylum in Australia, these thrice-weekly feasts (Monday, Tuesday, Friday) created a context in which the chefs were able to share their cuisine and culture with the wider community.

This unique enterprise simultaneously created a space in which Australians were able to show their support of individuals who were undergoing the difficult experience of seeking refuge in a foreign land – all the while partaking in some seriously tasty food! You can read more about Tamil Feasts here and here. 

 

A special eggplant curry from the team at Tamil Feasts, who create the most delicious, open hearted feasts every week at CERES. We’re very lucky to have Nirma on our Fair Food team when he is not cooking up a storm in the kitchen, so say thanks for the veg next time you’re at a feast – and if you haven’t made it there yet, what are you waiting for?! It’s gotta be the tastiest and most impactful meal in town – putting supportive community and social change at the centre of the table right where it belongs.

 

Traditional Sri Lankan Eggplant Curry

Serves 4 – 5 people 

Cut the eggplant into cubes about an inch thick.

Put the eggplant in a pot along with a pinch of salt, the turmeric powder, and coconut milk. Cook on medium heat for 30 minutes or until the eggplant becomes paste-like.

Take a separate pan and heat the oil at a medium temperature. Once hot, add the mustard, fennel, and cumin seeds, curry leaves, and onion and fry until light brown.

Add the onions and spices to the eggplant mixture and mix.

Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.

Serve with rice and enjoy!