Kashmiri Savory Apples and Eggplant (Choonth Wangun)
This is a classic Kashmiri vegetarian dish where tart Granny Smith apples are paired with tender eggplants in a spiced gravy. Traditionally called “Bumchoonth Wangun “ , it's made with quince but Granny Smith apples are a great substitution. The apples lend a gentle sweetness and slight tang, balancing the smokiness of the eggplant. Typically enjoyed with steaming white rice, this recipe captures the subtle harmony of fruit and vegetable in a savory combination. It would pair wonderfully with this lamb recipe. This recipe features Argilos Olive Oil and Primal Palate’s Apple Pie Spice.
Ingredients
- 3 whole3 whole3 whole Apple, Granny Smith
- 4 whole4 whole4 whole Eggplant, I prefer to use long Chinese eggplant
- 3 Tbsp3 Tbsp3 Tbsp ARGILOS IV MILD Extra Virgin Olive Oil (500ml) - Argilos, Can substitute with avocado or mustard oil

- 2 Tbsp2 Tbsp2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 whole2 whole2 whole Green Chilies, Can sub with jalapeño or other pepper
- 1.5 tsp1.5 tsp1.5 tsp Salt

- 0.5 tsp0.5 tsp0.5 tsp Cumin Seed, Whole
- 1 tsp1 tsp1 tsp Ginger, Ground

- 2 tsp2 tsp2 tsp Kashmiri Chili Powder, Can sub with paprika for less heat

- 0.5 tsp0.5 tsp0.5 tsp Apple Pie Spice - Primal Palate, Can Sub with garam masala

- 1 pinch1 pinch1 pinch Asafetida, Optional , Use gluten free version for whole30 or GF
Spices
Buy Ingredients on the FoodSocial Market
Shop over 3500 products from unique and independent, creator-curated brandsProcess
Note, these instructions are written assuming the standard serving size, since you have modified the number of servings, these steps may need to be modified for best results
- Cut eggplant into long thin slices
- Cut apples in 4 slices each and cut each slice into 2 pieces
- This step is optional but I like to bake /roast the eggplants in an air frier or oven before cooking as it elevates the taste . To air fry , spray or add a little oil to eggplant and air fry at 400 for 10-15 min, then keep on the side
- Heat oil in a wide bottomed wok or skillet at medium heat
- Add cumin seeds and let them bloom
- Add a pinch of asafetida powder (optional)
- Follow by adding Kashmiri chili powder and ginger powder and toast briskly for 15 seconds . Take care not to let the spices burn . Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil
- Add apples and salt
- Cover with a lid for 5-10 mins till apples are slightly tender
- Add the roasted eggplants , lemon juice and green chilies
- Let everything simmer on low heat for 10 minutes till eggplant and apples are tender
- Sprinkle with primal palate apple pie spice or traditional Indian garam masala (the spices in the apple pie mix like cinnamon and cardamom go very well with this recipe )
- Serve on a bed of white rice and enjoy this unique savory apple recipe
Add a Note
My Notes:
About This Recipe
Show nutritional information
Coconut Free Dairy Free Egg Free GAPS Gluten Free Grain Free Nut Free Paleo Pescetarian Plant Based Shellfish Free Side Dishes Sugar Alcohol Free Sugar Free Vegan Vegetarian| This is our estimate based on online research. | |
| Calories: | 135 |
| Fat: | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 11 g |
| Protein: | 1 g |
| Cholesterol: | 0 g |
| Sodium: | 853 mg |
| Fiber: | 3 g |
| Sugars: | 4 g |
| Sugar Alcohol: | 0 g |
| Calculated per serving. | |




Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.