begun
Also known as:
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Also known as:
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
Golden-fried eggplant slices simmered in a vibrant, tangy yogurt and pungent mustard gravy. This classic Bengali dish, with its beautiful yellow hue, is a delightful side for steamed rice.
A classic Kolkata street food, Telebhaja are assorted vegetables dipped in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-fried to crispy perfection. This recipe covers how to make the iconic Beguni (eggplant fritter) and Aloo Chop (spiced potato fritter), perfect for a rainy day snack.
A rustic and smoky Bengali delicacy made by fire-roasting eggplant and mashing it with pungent mustard oil, sharp onions, and fresh chilies. This simple dish is packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with rice or roti.
A quintessential Bengali delicacy, Begun Bhaja features thick slices of eggplant marinated in simple spices and shallow-fried in mustard oil until golden and crisp on the outside, and meltingly soft within. This beloved comfort food is the perfect accompaniment to a classic meal of dal and steamed rice.
Yes, begun is highly nutritious as it is low in calories and rich in fiber. It contains essential minerals like manganese for bone health and potent antioxidants, particularly nasunin in the skin, which helps protect brain cells from oxidative stress.
Begun is an excellent food for weight management because it contains only 25 calories per 100g. Its high fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day.
Yes, begun is considered keto-friendly. With approximately 5.88g of total carbohydrates and nearly 3g of fiber per 100g, its low net carb count makes it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
Begun is beneficial for individuals with diabetes due to its high fiber and polyphenol content. These components can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down sugar absorption and potentially increasing insulin secretion.
Begun has a mild, slightly earthy, and savory flavor with a hint of bitterness when raw. Its unique spongy texture allows it to absorb the flavors of oils, spices, and sauces exceptionally well during cooking.
It is generally recommended to keep the skin on, as it contains the majority of the vegetable's antioxidants, such as nasunin. However, if the begun is very large or old, the skin may become tough and bitter, in which case peeling is optional.
To reduce bitterness, slice the begun and sprinkle the pieces with salt, letting them sit for 20 to 30 minutes. This 'sweating' process draws out the bitter juices; simply rinse the slices and pat them dry before cooking.
begun is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 25 calories per 100g and 0.98 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the vegetable category with complete nutrition information.
View all vegetable →Store begun in a cool, dry place or in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Avoid storing it near ethylene-producing fruits like bananas or tomatoes, as this can cause the begun to overripen and spoil quickly.
A fresh begun should have firm, shiny skin and a bright green stem. If the skin appears shriveled, the flesh feels soft or mushy, or if there are large brown patches inside when cut, the vegetable is likely spoiled.
Begun is extremely versatile and can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or deep-fried. Popular preparations include 'Begun Bhaja' (spiced fried slices) and 'Begun Pora' (char-roasted and mashed with mustard oil and onions).
