Chole bhature

A popular North Indian dish

Chole Bhature is a popular dish originating from the northern regions of India. It is a combination of spicy chickpeas (chole) and fried bread (bhature). This dish is widely consumed across India and is known for its rich flavors and hearty nature.

Ingredients

A plate of Chole Bhature served at a local street vendor.

The main ingredients of Chole Bhature include:

• Chole: Made from chickpeas, which are soaked overnight and cooked with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.
• Bhature: A type of fried bread made from maida (refined wheat flour), yogurt, and a leavening agent such as baking powder.

Preparation

The preparation of Chole Bhature involves two main steps:

Chole

1. Soak the chickpeas overnight in water. 2. Cook the chickpeas with spices, onions, tomatoes, and ginger-garlic paste until they are soft and flavorful. 3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and green chilies.

Bhature

1. Prepare a dough using maida, yogurt, salt, and baking powder. 2. Allow the dough to rest for a few hours to ferment slightly. 3. Roll the dough into small discs and deep fry them until they puff up and turn golden brown.

Serving

Chole Bhature is typically served hot, accompanied by pickle, onion slices, and a wedge of lemon. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast or lunch dish and is a staple in many North Indian households.

Cultural Significance

Chole Bhature is not just a dish but a cultural experience in North India. It is commonly found in Punjabi cuisine and is a popular choice at weddings, festivals, and special occasions. The dish is also a favorite street food, with vendors serving it fresh and hot to eager customers.

Variations

There are several regional variations of Chole Bhature, including:

• Amritsari Chole: Known for its unique blend of spices and slightly tangy flavor.
• Pindi Chole: A drier version of chole, often cooked without onions and tomatoes.

Related pages

• Punjabi cuisine
• Indian cuisine
• Street food of India