Chole bhature: A Popular North Indian Dish
Chole bhature is a popular North Indian dish that is known for its delicious combination of spicy chickpeas and fluffy fried bread. In this article, we will explore the history and recipe of chole bhature, as well as provide tips for making it at home.
The History of Chole Bhature
Chole bhature is believed to have originated in the Punjab region of India, where it is a popular street food and breakfast dish. The dish is also commonly served at weddings and other special occasions.
Chole, also known as chana masala, is a spicy and tangy chickpea curry that is made with a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Bhature, on the other hand, is a deep-fried bread that is made with all-purpose flour, yogurt, and yeast.
The Recipe for Chole Bhature
Making chole bhature at home requires a few key ingredients and some patience. This recipe serves four people.
Ingredients for Chole:
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can of chickpeas)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 2 green chillies, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
Ingredients for Bhature:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions:
- In a pan, heat the oil and add the cumin seeds. When they begin to crackle, add the onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger, garlic, and green chillies, and sauté for another minute.
- Add the tomatoes and cook until they are soft and mushy.
- Add the coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala, and mix well.
- Add the cooked chickpeas along with a cup of water and salt to taste. Mix well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and keep it aside.
- To make the bhature, mix the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Add the yogurt and mix well. Add water slowly and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and roll them into small discs.
- Gently drop the discs into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot with the chole.
Tips for Making the Best Chole Bhature
- Soak the chickpeas overnight and pressure cook them until they are soft for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust the amount of spices to your taste.
- Knead the dough for the bhature until it is soft and elastic.
- Fry the bhature in hot oil for a crispy and fluffy texture.
- Garnish the chole with chopped onions, green chillies, and
- a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
- Serve the chole bhature hot and fresh for the best taste.
- Variations of Chole Bhature
- Chole bhature can be customized according to personal preferences and tastes. Some popular variations include:
- Paneer bhature: Add cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to the dough for a delicious twist.
- Aloo chole: Add diced potatoes to the chole for a heartier dish.
- Chole kulche: Substitute the bhature with kulcha, a type of flatbread, for a healthier option.
- Chana dal bhature: Use chana dal (split Bengal gram) instead of chickpeas for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Conclusion
- Chole bhature is a classic North Indian dish that is enjoyed by people all over the country. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, with paneer or potatoes, chole bhature is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes.
- With a few key ingredients and some patience, you can make this delicious dish at home and enjoy it with your family and friends. So why not give it a try and experience the flavors of North India in your own kitchen?
