Traditional Indian Recipe: Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a classic North Indian dish consisting of spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with deep-fried bread (bhature). This dish is a favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is often enjoyed on special occasions. Here’s a detailed guide to making authentic Chole Bhature at home.

Ingredients

For the Chole (Chickpea Curry):

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (or 3 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
• 1 black tea bag (optional, for color)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3-4 cloves
• 3-4 black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt to taste
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
• 4 large tomatoes, pureed
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 2 teaspoons chole masala (available at Indian grocery stores)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon amchur (dried mango powder) or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the Bhature:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons semolina (sooji)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• Water, as needed
• Oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

1. Soak the dried chickpeas in water overnight. If using canned chickpeas, skip to Step 2.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas.
3. In a large pot, add the chickpeas, tea bag (if using), bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, black peppercorns, baking soda, and salt. Cover with water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chickpeas are tender, about 1-1.5 hours. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chole

1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies (if using), and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and chole masala. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
5. Add the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate from the masala, about 10 minutes.
6. Add the cooked chickpeas to the masala and mix well.
7. Pour in enough water to reach your desired consistency (usually about 1-2 cups).
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Stir in the garam masala and amchur (or lemon juice). Adjust salt to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Bhature

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the yogurt and mix well.
3. Gradually add water and knead to form a smooth and elastic dough.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1-2 hours.
5. Divide the dough into small equal-sized balls and roll each ball into a thick, round disc.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
7. Fry the rolled bhature until they puff up and turn golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish the chole with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with the freshly fried bhature.

Tips for Perfect Chole Bhature

• Chickpea Prep: Soaking dried chickpeas overnight is essential for even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can use canned chickpeas.
• Spice Level: Adjust the green chilies and red chili powder to suit your heat preference.
• Bhature Dough: Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and rested for soft and fluffy bhature.
• Frying Temperature: Fry the bhature on medium heat to ensure they puff up evenly and become golden brown.

Chole Bhature is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the robust spices of India to your table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Enjoy your culinary journey with this traditional Chole Bhature!