Vegan, this recipe serves 3 people
Today it is all about Choka. This popular dish is mainly spread throughout Guyana and Trinidad. It was originally brought over by Indian migrants at the end of the 19th century. Nowadays you will find this traditional Indian dish to be widely spread throughout the Caribbean society. It represents the complexity in the West Indian culture. What was introduced by an ethnic minority has now become a staple in the national cuisine. Choka is diverse, ital (vegan) and full of flavour.
You can swap the Baigan (eggplant) in this recipe for fresh tomatoes for a tomato choka. It is mostly served with white rice or Roti. Here is a step by step guide on how to make your own version at home:
Ingredients:
2 Fresh eggplants
2 cloves garlic
1/2 onion
1 tbsp Chippinflavour Fresh Green Seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
Freshly chopped scotch bonnet to taste
Black pepper and Salt to taste
1. Wash and prepare your vegetables.
2. Roast your eggplants.
You can do it on your grill or even on the broiler setting in your oven. This will take about 5-10 minutes, depending on your heat setting. Make sure you keep an eye on it and rotate your eggplants regularly, so you have an even char all over. Roast your garlic and onion as well. The roasting processed is finished when you see a nice smokey char all over and your vegetables are soft.
3. Scrape off the outer layer of your eggplant and remove the skin. Place the soft inside into a separate bowl.
4. Mash your roasted eggplant, onions and garlic together with a fork while it is still hot.
5. Now it is time to season. Add your Chippin Flavour Fresh Green Seasoning and mix it in very well. The intense and fresh flavour of this seasoning blend compliments the smokey sweetness of the eggplant. Add in olive oil, salt, pepper, and scotch bonnet to taste and mash it all together again.
6. Serve this dish warm with roti or rice and enjoy!