Aloo baingan, a popular dish across the India-Pakistan region made with potatoes and eggplants/aubergines, has unexpectedly landed on Taste Atlas's list of the world's 100 worst-rated foods.

This has sparked debate among food enthusiasts, with many questioning the inclusion of this beloved dish on such a list where it is ranked on the 60th spot.

TasteAtlas is one of the top food and travel guides in the world, Aloo baingan is a staple in many households in both India and Pakistan. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that is often served with roti or rice. While some people may not be fans of the eggplant's slightly bitter taste, it is generally considered a well-loved comfort food.

So, how did aloo baingan end up on the "worst foods" list? TasteAtlas, a global food review publication, compiles its list based on user ratings and reviews. Aloo baingan received a 2.7 out of 5-star rating, which is apparently low enough to land it on the list. Although listed as Indian, the dish is equally popular across the border in Pakistan.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TasteAtlas (@tasteatlas)

As per TasteAtlas, "Simple and flavourful, aloo baingan is a dish made with a combination of eggplants and potatoes, cooked together with onions, tomatoes, and various spices. The name of the dish specifies its key ingredients, since aloo means potatoes, and baingan means eggplant.

"Basically, it is a type of sabzi (dry curry) that is usually served with flatbreads such as roti and naan. It is said that aloo baingan is even better if made in advance, as the flavours deepen while the dish rests."

However, many people are not taking this ranking seriously. They argue that personal preferences play a big role in food choices, and what one person may dislike, another person may love. They also point out that aloo baingan is a healthy dish made with fresh ingredients, and it is certainly not one of the worst things you can eat.

So, if you've never tried aloo baingan before, don't be discouraged by its recent ranking. Give it a try and see for yourself if this classic Indian dish deserves a place on your table.

TasteAtlas is considered an encyclopaedia of traditional dishes, local ingredients, and authentic restaurants around the world. Its catalogue includes over 10,000 foods and drinks, while dozens of thousands were yet to be researched and mapped.