In a recent episode of Saturday Kitchen Live, renowned British TV chef Nigella Lawson stirred up controversy with her unconventional take on a traditional Indian dish, baingan bharta.
Instead of following the traditional recipe, which typically involves grilled eggplant, tomato, onion, herbs, and spices, Lawson introduced a surprising ingredient: British fried fish sticks. This unexpected twist left some viewers divided, with one labeling it her “worst idea ever.”
During the episode, Lawson presented her creation, dubbed “fish finger bharta,” explaining that it was inspired by her favorite snack and required a bit of imagination.
She defended her approach, emphasizing that while recipes should be practical, they should also spark creativity and imagination.
In her specially arranged kitchen, Lawson began by frying onions, describing them as one of the “essential rhythms of the kitchen.”
As the onions sizzled, she added red chilies for heat, ginger, English mustard, garlic, red onion, coriander, spinach, lime juice, and a tray of pre-baked fish fingers.
She humorously remarked that she was reinventing fish fingers in a way never seen before, even though she herself loves a classic fish finger sandwich.
Explaining the concept of bharta, Lawson highlighted its defining feature: the mashed component. For her version, she believed that the soft texture of fish fingers would serve this purpose perfectly.
To aid in mashing, she intentionally slightly overcooked the fish fingers.
After a few minutes of cooking, the dish was ready. Lawson sampled it on camera and appeared to enjoy it, but not all viewers shared her enthusiasm.
Some took to social media to criticize the unconventional dish, with one commenter expressing disbelief at the idea of mashing fish fingers.
Despite the backlash, Lawson’s creative approach to cooking and willingness to experiment resonated with many fans, who appreciate her ability to push culinary boundaries.
Others took a more lighthearted approach, acknowledging that while fish finger bharta might not be traditional, it’s precisely this kind of innovation that makes Lawson’s cooking so entertaining to watch.
As the debate over fish finger bharta continues to unfold online, one thing is clear: Nigella Lawson’s culinary creativity knows no bounds, and she remains unapologetically herself in the kitchen, delighting and surprising audiences with her inventive recipes and infectious enthusiasm for food.
Lifestyle