Chole Bhature
Chole Bhature is a traditional Indian dish that originated in Northern India. This dish is a combination of spicy chickpeas (chole) and deep-fried bread (bhature). Chole Bhature is a popular street food in India and is widely enjoyed for its unique blend of flavors and textures. It’s often served as a main course and is a staple food in many households.
History
The origin of Chole Bhature dates back to the Mughal Empire when the dish was introduced to India by the Mughal rulers. The dish was traditionally made with large wheat-flour flatbreads that were deep-fried in ghee or oil. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, and today, Chole Bhature is made with smaller, round bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Chole Bhature Recipe
Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make Chole Bhature at home. Chole Bhature Recipe for 4 People
Ingredients
- For the Chole:
- 8 cups chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 8 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
- 4 medium-sized onions, chopped
- 8-12 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 inches ginger, minced
- 8 green chilies, chopped
- 4 tsp turmeric powder (use healthy Lakadong Turmeric Powder)
- 4 tsp coriander powder
- 4 tsp cumin powder
- 4 tsp red chili powder (for best taste use authentic Mathania Chilli Powder of Pure N Desi)
- 4 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 8 tbsp oil (use Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil)
- For the Bhature:
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tsp baking powder
- Salt to taste
- Oil for deep frying
Preparation
- Cook the chickpeas in a pressure cooker for 6-7 whistles or until they are soft and tender.
- Heat oil in a pan and add the chopped onions. Cook until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger, garlic, and green chilies and cook for a few minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, red chili, and garam masala powders and mix well.
- Add the cooked chickpeas and mix well.
- Add salt to taste and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
For the Bhature:
- Mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add water gradually to form a soft and sticky dough.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and pliable.
- Divide the dough into equal-sized balls and roll them into thin, round discs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
- Fry the bhature until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Serving
Serve the Chole Bhature hot with a dollop of yogurt and a side of pickles.
Chole Bhature Calories:
Chole Bhature is a calorie-dense dish, with one serving providing around 500-600 calories. The dish consists of two main components: spicy chickpeas (chole) and deep-fried bread (bhature). Let’s take a look at the calorie breakdown of Chole Bhature:
Chole (Spicy Chickpeas)
- 1 cup of cooked chickpeas: approximately 260 calories
- 8 medium-sized tomatoes: approximately 80 calories
- 4 medium-sized onions: approximately 60 calories
- 8-12 cloves of garlic: approximately 20 calories
- 4 inches ginger: approximately 10 calories
- 8 green chilies: approximately 8 calories
- Oil for cooking: approximately 80 calories
Bhature (Deep-Fried Bread)
- 8 cups of all-purpose flour: approximately 800 calories
- 4 tsp baking powder: approximately 20 calories
- Oil for deep-frying: approximately 400 calories
One serving of Chole Bhature can provide around 500-600 calories, making it a calorie-dense dish. It is high in carbohydrates, fats, and protein, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal. However, it is best to consume Chole Bhature in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.
Tips & Tricks for Making the Perfect Chole Bhature
- Soak the chickpeas overnight to reduce the cooking time and make them tender.
- Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spices according to your personal preference.
- Fry the Bhature until they are golden brown and puffed up for a crisp texture.
- Serve the Chole Bhature hot with a side of yogurt and pickles for a delicious and satisfying meal.