Chole Bhature

 Chole Bhature 

Chole Bhature is a beloved North Indian dish, consisting of spicy chickpea curry (chole) paired with deep-fried bread (bhature). The chickpea curry is simmered in a rich blend of aromatic spices, while the bhature is soft, fluffy, and crispy on the outside. This hearty and flavorful dish is often enjoyed forbreakfast, brunch, or as a satisfying meal any time of the day. With its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, Chole Bhature is a culinary delight that never fails to tantalize the taste buds.

Ingredients for Chole (Chickpea Curry):

- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed)

- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped

- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, finely chopped

- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1 teaspoon cumin powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

- Salt to taste

- 2 tablespoons oil

- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Ingredients for Bhature (Fried Bread):

- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- Salt to taste

- Oil for frying

Procedure:

1. **Preparation of Chole:**

   - If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. Then, pressure cook them with salt until soft. If using canned chickpeas, skip this step.

   - Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

   - Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

   - Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.

   - Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy and oil starts separating.

   - Now add all the dry spices - coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

   - Add cooked chickpeas along with some water (adjust the consistency according to your preference). Bring it to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes until the gravy thickens.

   - Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and keep it aside.

2. **Preparation of Bhature:**

   - In a mixing bowl, add all-purpose flour, yogurt, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

   - Slowly add water and knead into a soft dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 2 hours.

   - After the resting period, divide the dough into small equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a small disc using a rolling pin.

   - Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, gently slide the rolled dough into the hot oil.

   - Fry until the bhatura puffs up and turns golden brown on both sides. Remove from the oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.

   - Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.

3. **Serving:**

   - Serve hot and crispy bhature with piping hot chole.

   - You can also serve with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and pickles for extra flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Chole Bhature, a popular North Indian delicacy!