Introduction to Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a beloved North Indian dish that combines spicy, tangy chickpea curry (chole) with deep-fried, fluffy bread (bhature). This dish is a staple in Punjabi cuisine and is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch. The rich flavors of the chole, paired with the soft and crispy bhature, make it a favorite among food lovers. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or craving a comforting meal, Chole Bhature is a perfect choice. Making it at home is easier than you think, and this recipe will guide you through the process step by step.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chole Bhature recipe is authentic, flavorful, and uses simple ingredients to create a dish that’s as close to the traditional version as possible. The combination of spicy chickpeas and fluffy bhature makes it a standout meal. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Chole Bhature is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Chole Bhature at home:

For the Chole (Chickpea Curry):

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (or 4 cups canned chickpeas)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala
• 2-3 black tea bags or 1 black tea leaf (for color)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

For the Bhature (Fried Bread):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/2 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt to taste
• Water (as needed)
• Oil (for deep frying)

---

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chole

1. Soak the Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Cook the Chickpeas: Pressure cook the chickpeas with 4 cups of water, salt, and tea bags/leaves for 4-5 whistles until tender. If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them.
3. Prepare the Gravy: Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add Spices: Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add Tomatoes: Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
6. Combine Chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas and mix well. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Finish with Masalas: Add amchur, chaat masala, and salt. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Step 2: Prepare the Bhature

1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour, semolina, yogurt, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add water gradually to form a soft dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
2. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 2 hours.
3. Shape the Bhature: Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into circles (about 6 inches in diameter).
4. Fry the Bhature: Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry the bhature one at a time until they puff up and turn golden brown.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the hot chole with freshly fried bhature.
2. Garnish: Garnish the chole with chopped onions, green chilies, and lemon wedges.
3. Enjoy: Pair with pickles, yogurt, or a side salad for a complete meal.

---

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 600 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 80g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 5g

---

Health Benefits of Chole Bhature

While Chole Bhature is an indulgent dish, it offers several health benefits when made with wholesome ingredients:

1. High in Protein: Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein.
2. Rich in Fiber: Chickpeas and whole wheat flour (if used) provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
3. Probiotics: Yogurt in the bhature dough adds probiotics, promoting gut health.
4. Antioxidants: Spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties.

---

Ending Notes and Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and herbs will enhance the flavor of the dish.
2. Adjust Spice Level: Use fewer chili peppers or remove the seeds to reduce the heat.
3. Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat flour for bhature and reduce the amount of oil for frying.
4. Serve Immediately: Chole Bhature is best enjoyed fresh, as the bhature may lose its crispiness over time.
5. Leftovers: Store leftovers separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain the texture.