Baigan (Eggplant) And Aloo (Potato) With Stewed Pork
A comforting Caribbean classic made with tender eggplant and potatoes simmered together, then finished with leftover stewed pork for a deeply flavorful one-pot meal. This is traditional Monday cooking at its best and perfect with hot sada roti.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic smashed
- 3 lbs eggplant peeled and cubed
- 3/4 tablespoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 lbs potatoes peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion sliced
- 1/2 scotch bonnet pepper optional
- 2 cups water
- 2 to 3 cups leftover stewed pork brown-stew pork
- Optional ingredients:
- Coconut milk up to 1/2 cup
- 2 Pimento peppers chopped
- tablespoon Caribbean green seasoning
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and dice the eggplant and potatoes. Prepare the onion, garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a wide pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook on low heat for about 2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to brown it.
- Add the eggplant to the pot, increase the heat to medium, and stir well. Season with the salt and black pepper.
- After about 1 minute, add the potatoes, sliced onion, and scotch bonnet pepper in an amount you can tolerate. Stir to combine. Habanero pepper is an excellent substitute for the scotch bonnet.
- Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Add the water, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook with the lid slightly ajar. Stir every 4-5 minutes and add more water if required.
- After about 20 minutes, add the leftover stewed pork and stir well so it’s evenly distributed.
- Cook uncovered for 4 to 6 minutes, or until most of the liquid has cooked off and the dish has a thick, rich consistency. Taste and adjust the salt to your liking.
- Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Serve with hot roti (I prefer Sada roti).
Video
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baigan and aloo without meat?Yes, this dish works very well as a vegetarian option. Leave out the stewed pork and consider adding coconut milk or extra seasoning for depth. What can I substitute for Scotch onnet pepper?
You can use any chili pepper you prefer, or omit it entirely if you prefer a mild dish. Can I use frozen eggplant?
Fresh eggplant is best for texture, but frozen eggplant can be used in a pinch, keeping in mind it will break down faster. What should I serve with baigan and aloo?
This dish is traditionally served with sada roti, but it also pairs well with rice or dhal.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!