Eggplant Caponata - SHARAN

Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized eggplant ( bharta baingan ), cut into ½” cubes (to yield 4 cups)
• 1 large onion, chopped in ½” dice
• 3 tbsp pine nuts or peanuts
• 3 tbsp currants (may substitute with same amount of golden raisins)
• 1 tbsp hot chilli flakes, plus extra for the garnish
• 1 tbsp date paste
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dry thyme
• ¼ cup basic tomato sauce
• ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
• Unrefined salt and freshly ground pepper to season
• 1 whole wheat baguette, sliced into ¾” rounds and toasted or grilled in the oven