Begun Bhaja - Crisp Fried Eggplant

1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar
2 tsp vegetable oil
1/2 cup plain soy yoghurt
1 cup water
1 small eggplant, up to 1lb, cut into 2 1/2 x 1/2 x 1/4 inch pieces
vegetable oil for frying (at least 2 inches deep)

In a bowl, combine besan, baking powder, cumin, salt and sugar. Mix in
oil and soy yoghurt. Gradually add water, stirring with a spoon so
that a smooth batter forms. Place a few pieces of eggplant in the
batter. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Heat oil in a saucepan or deep fat fryer to 375F (190C). heat oven to
200F 110C). Fry a few eggplant slices at a time until they turn golden
brown all over, about a minute on each side, turning once. (cut one
fried piece in half to see if the inside is cooked properly). Drain on
paper towels. Serve immediately or keep warm in the oven until all
have been fried.

Serve with chutneys and relishes.

I've seen pics of some of the readers on this group. They need
healthier, low-fat recipes. Please stop posting high-fat, sugary
recipes. Your version of veganism is as unhealthy as the diets you abhor.