Vaangi Baath Recipe | Authentic South Indian Brinjal Rice

If you’re craving something flavorful, tangy, and truly South Indian, then Vaangi Baath is a dish you must try! Also known as Brinjal Rice, this Karnataka specialty Vaangi Baath recipe combines tender brinjals, tangy tamarind, and a homemade spice mix to create a delicious, wholesome meal.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional rice varieties like Puliyogare, Bisi Bele Bath, or Lemon Rice, this simple Vaagi Baath recipe will win your heart with its irresistible aroma and earthy flavor. It’s easy to make, vegan, and perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.

The word “Vaangi” or “Vangi” means brinjal (eggplant), and “Baath” or “Bath” means rice in Kannada. So, Vaangi Baath literally translates to Brinjal Rice — a flavorful blend of rice and sautéed brinjals cooked in a tangy, spiced masala mix.

Vaangi Baath Recipe itself originates from Karnataka, but variations are also popular in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. In Karnataka, it’s a festive dish often served during special occasions, temple offerings (prasadam), or family gatherings.

Unlike plain tamarind rice, Vaangi Baath stands out because of its rich, roasted masala powder that infuses the dish with warmth and depth.

 ✅ Authentic Karnataka-style Vaangi Baath

 ✅ Easy to make — a simple Vaagi Bath recipe perfect for beginners

 ✅ Deliciously spicy, tangy, and aromatic

 ✅ Vegan and gluten-free

 ✅ Great for lunch boxes and travel meals

If you’re looking for a simple Vaagi Baath recipe that tastes authentic and comforting, this one is perfect.

Vaangi Baath recipe mainly consists vaangi baath powder,

•  Coriander seeds – 2 tablespoons
•  Chana dal – 1 tablespoon
•  Urad dal – 1 tablespoon
•  Dry red chilies – 5
•  Fenugreek seeds – ¼ teaspoon
•  Cinnamon – 1-inch piece
•  Cloves – 2
•  Grated dry coconut – 2 tablespoons
•  Oil – 1 teaspoon (for roasting)

For the Main Dish:

•  Cooked rice – 2 cups (preferably cooled)
•  Small brinjals – 6 to 8 (cut lengthwise)
•  Tamarind pulp – 2 tablespoons
•  Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
•  Curry leaves – few
•  Green chilies – 2 (slit)
•  Turmeric powder – ¼ teaspoon
•  Salt – to taste
•  Oil – 2 to 3 tablespoons
•  Roasted peanuts or cashews – 1 tablespoon
•  Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish

If you’re looking for a simple Vaagi Bath recipe, here’s how to make this delicious South Indian rice dish in three easy stages.

The spice powder is the heart of this recipe.

1. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan.

2. Add coriander seeds, chana dal, urad dal, red chilies, fenugreek seeds, cinnamon, and cloves.

3. Roast on low heat until golden and aromatic.

4. Add dry coconut, sauté for 30 seconds, and remove from heat.

5. Let it cool completely, then grind to a fine powder.

This Vaangi Baath masala can be made in advance and stored for a month.

Shortcut tip: If you want an even simpler Vaangi Baath recipe, you can use ready-made Vaangi Baath masala available in stores like MTR.

Step 2: Cook the Brinjals

1. Heat oil in a wide pan.

2. Add mustard seeds; let them splutter.

3. Add curry leaves and green chilies.

4. Add sliced brinjals, turmeric, and salt.

5. Sauté until the brinjals turn soft and golden brown.

6. Add tamarind pulp and cook for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.

The brinjals will absorb the tamarind and spices, becoming soft and flavorful.

Step 3: Mix with Rice and Masala

1. Add 2–3 teaspoons of Vaangi Baath powder to the cooked brinjal mixture.

2. Mix well to coat the brinjals evenly.

3. Add the cooked rice and gently toss until every grain is coated with masala.

4. Taste and adjust salt or spice.

5. Garnish with roasted peanuts and coriander leaves.

That’s it! Your simple Vaagi Baath recipe is ready — flavorful, aromatic, and absolutely delicious.

Serve Vaangi Baath (Brinjal Rice) warm or at room temperature with:

•  Fresh curd or plain yogurt
•  Coconut chutney
•  Pickle or papad
•  A simple salad on the side

This dish also stays fresh for hours, making it a great choice for picnics and travel meals.

1. Use small brinjals: Tender, small-sized brinjals absorb the masala better.

2. Cool your rice: Cooled rice helps avoid mushiness and makes mixing easier.

3. Tamarind balance: Adjust tanginess to taste — a little goes a long way.

4. Make-ahead tip: Keep the Vaangi Baath powder ready; it saves cooking time.

5. Add crunch: Roasted peanuts or cashews give a perfect nutty contrast.

In Karnataka homes, Vaangi Baath is more than just a rice dish — it’s a tradition. Each region adds its own twist: Mysore-style Vaangi Baath tends to be spicier, while the Bangalore version has a milder, slightly sweet flavor.

It’s also considered auspicious and often served during festivals like Ugadi, Navaratri, and Varalakshmi Vratham. The aroma of roasted spices and tamarind-laced brinjals filling the kitchen is something every South Indian remembers fondly.

Besides its irresistible taste, Vaangi Baath offers many nutritional benefits:

•  Rich in fiber: Brinjals aid digestion and promote gut health.
•  Low-calorie meal: Ideal for those looking for light yet filling food.
•  Antioxidant-rich: Brinjal skin contains compounds that protect cells.
•  Good for the heart: Tamarind helps regulate cholesterol levels.
•  Spice boost: The roasted spices support metabolism and immunity.

Pair it with curd for a wholesome, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

•  Capsicum Vaangi Baath: Replace brinjals with capsicum for a crunchy version.
•  Mixed Vegetable Bath: Add carrots, beans, and peas for a colorful twist.
•  Maharashtrian Vangi Bhaat: Add goda masala and a pinch of jaggery for sweetness.
•  Lemon Twist: Skip tamarind and add lemon juice for a refreshing flavor.

Each variation brings a new taste dimension while keeping the signature aroma of Vaangi Baath intact.

Learn how to make the authentic karnataka style masala Bisi Bele Bath Recipe at home

Conclusion

Vaangi Baath, or Brinjal Rice, is one of Karnataka’s most beloved rice dishes — rich, tangy, and deeply aromatic. Every bite brings together the smoky flavor of roasted spices, the tang of tamarind, and the melt-in-mouth texture of brinjals.

This simple Vaagi Baath recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something truly flavorful. Whether you’re making it for your family lunch or packing it for a road trip, Vaangi Baath always satisfies.

So the next time you have fresh brinjals at home, skip the usual curry — try this simple Vaagi Bath recipe and bring the authentic taste of Karnataka straight to your plate!