Chole Bhature is a popular North Indian dish known for its bold flavors and satisfying texture. This dish, which consists of spicy chickpeas (chole) and fluffy deep-fried bread (bhature), is a staple in Indian restaurants and a popular breakfast or brunch option. Here’s an in-depth guide to making this delectable dish at home.
Chole Bhature Recipe Ingredients
| For Chole (Spicy Chickpeas) | For Bhature |
|---|---|
| Chickpeas (chole)– 1 cup, soaked overnight or for 8 hours Ginger-Garlic Paste– 1 tablespoon Green Chilies– 2, slit (optional) | All-Purpose Flour (Maida)– 2 cups |
| Onions– 2 medium, finely chopped Oil– 2 tablespoons Bay Leaf– 1 | Semolina (Sooji/Rava)– 2 tablespoons |
| Tomatoes– 2 medium, pureed Cinnamon Stick– 1 small piece Cardamom Pods– 2 | Yogurt (Dahi)– ½ cup |
| Cloves: 2, Cumin Seeds– 1 teaspoon, Turmeric Powder– ½ teaspoon, Red Chili Powder– 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) | Baking Soda– ¼ teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder– 1 teaspoon Cumin Powder– ½ teaspoon Garam Masala– 1 teaspoon, Salt– To taste | Sugar– 1 teaspoon |
| Chole Masala– 2 teaspoons (optional for enhanced flavor) Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)– 1 teaspoon, crushed Tamarind Paste– 1 tablespoon (optional for tanginess) | Salt– ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander– For garnish | Oil– 1 tablespoon + for deep frying |
| Water– As required | Water– As required |
Chole Recipe
– Soak one cup of chickpeas in plenty of water overnight, or for at least eight hours. Drain and rinse them.
– Pressure cook the soaked chickpeas with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt for 5-6 whistles, or until tender. Alternatively, cook the chickpeas in a saucepan until tender but not mushy. Set aside.
Chole Masala
– Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai.
– Combine the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves.
– The finely chopped onions until golden brown. This step is essential for achieving a rich flavor.
– Combine the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook until the raw odor disappears.
– Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
– Combine the turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and chole masala. Mix thoroughly and cook for 2-3 minutes.
– Add the cooked chickpeas, along with their water. Stir everything together and allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes. If necessary, add more water to achieve the desired consistency.
– Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and mix it into the chole for added flavor. Stir well.
– Taste and adjust the salt and spices. Finally, add the garam masala and mix well. If using tamarind paste, mix it in now.
– Garnish with fresh coriander and set aside the chole.
Bhature Dough
– In a large mixing bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, semolina, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
– Combine yogurt and 1 tablespoon oil. Mix well.
– Add water gradually and knead until the dough is soft and pliable. It shouldn’t be sticky.
– Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set aside for 1-2 hours.
Fry Bhature
– After resting, divide the dough into equal-size balls.
– Roll out each ball to a circle or oval about 6-8 inches in diameter. Do not roll too thinly, as the bhature will puff up while frying.
– Heat the oil in a deep pan or kadai until it is hot but not smoking. To test, place a small piece of dough in the oil; it should immediately rise.
– Carefully place one rolled-out bhatura in the hot oil. Gently press with a slotted spoon to help it puff up.
– Flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.
– Remove and place on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Serving Suggestions
Chole Bhature is best served hot. Serve the spicy chole and fluffy bhature on a plate, accompanied by –
- Pickled Onions- Thinly sliced onions marinated in vinegar and seasoned with salt.
- Green Chutney- It is a refreshing dip made from mint, coriander, and green chilies.
- Lemon wedges- Add a tangy kick.
- Papad- Crispy roasted or fried papadums provide crunch.
Chole-
Chole Bhature is more than just a dish, it’s an entire culinary experience that incorporates spice, flavor, and texture. This recipe is ideal for celebrations or comforting family meals, allowing you to recreate the magic of this classic at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, the detailed steps outlined above will ensure your Chole Bhature is restaurant-quality. So, gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating this crowd-pleasing.