Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I discovered Patak's Brinjal Egg Plant Relish in the 1990s, before the label was sold to a UK food conglomerate. At the time, it was called Patak's Brinjal Aubergine (or Bringal Pickle Aubergine in some markets).
When the company transferred across the Atlantic, the new owners chose to abandon this little gem in favor of Patak's other chutney's and mint pastes -- all of them terrific. But for me, it was like losing a best friend. Talk about COMFORT food... I called the new owners at least once a year begging for a return of ambrosia.
For me, it was like trying to break a drug addiction, but in this case, there was no methadone in site. It's difficult to describe a flavor in a text review, but let me try...
Some of us like our pastes, sauces and relishes *HOT*. (This one is modestly rated as "medium"). But when recipes add chili or other heat, it is far too easy to drop the ball on the other flavors. Would you like some sweet, spicy & natural flavors dancing amongst the tangy heat? Do want a flavor that makes you close your eyes and praise the designer for giving you a tongue? If this describes you, then this is as close to paradise as it gets. Next, let's talk about VERSATILE. I spread this baby on everything (the word "spread" requires artistic license. Some firm eggplant chunks are as big as your little finger!)
Do you have to be Indian to eat this relish? Heck no! I'm a mid-west raised, New England Yankee. But this little jar of heaven has become one of my raison's d'etre (Translation: "reasons for existence"). To be fair, you have to love Indian or Mediterranean spice. It's loaded with chili, fenugreek, coriander, mustard and turmeric -- and especially fresh garlic (definitely not roasted or denatured!). And of course, it has just the right amount of heat. The basic flavor component is a bit like fermented raisins or rum w/raisin, though I doubt that there is any alcohol.
Verdict: 6 out of 5 stars. (That's not a mistake. It's THAT good!)
Want a sanity check? Sure, why not! Write to me:
ellery (at) starbus (dot) com
Click Here to see more reviews about: Patak's Brinjal Egg Plant Relish, Medium, 10-Ounce Glass Jars (Pack of 6)
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