Chole bhature is my childhood favorite food! My mummy would make it for us on special occasions, and sometimes on our Birthdays! I am so glad that my hubby and kiddos are a big fan of this North Indian delicacy as well! My 6-year-old starts dancing with joy when she sees me making chole bhature for dinner. She reminds me of my childhood!!

Chole is an Indian chickpea curry and bhature is deep fried, fluffy bread…this combo is bound to play a harmonious symphony in your mouth!

There are many variations of this recipe, but the one I have prepared for you today is an easy one and prefect for the novice cooks!!

Recipe                                               Servings: 4-6                                      Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 (15 oz.) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed or 4 cups cooked chickpeas
• 2 medium onions, minced or chopped fine
• 2 Tbsp. ginger garlic paste
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 Tbsp. coriander powder
• 2 tsp. cumin powder
• 1 tsp. red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
• 1 tsp. cumin seeds
• 2 tsp. chat masala
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1/2 tsp. garam masala
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 green cardamoms – choti ilaichi
• 1 black cardamom – badi ilaichi
• 2 Tbsp. oil
• 3/4-cup water
• 2 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste

Here is my video on how to make Chana Masala.

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Method

1. Heat oil in a skillet. Add bay leaf, cumin seeds, whole cardamoms and the onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the ginger garlic paste and continue to sauté until the onion is golden.
3. Add tomatoes, dry spices and cook for 5-6 minutes on medium-low heat.
4. Add the drained chickpeas and fry for few more minutes until it mixes well with the spices.
5. Add ¾ cup water and bring to a simmer, on low heat.
6. Add more water to desired consistency. It should be stew like.
7. Garnish with cilantro!

Notes:

• This curry can be served with rice or Indian breads (puris, parathas, naan or bhaturas).
• You can make it without cardamoms..it will taste equally yum!

Health benefits of chickpeas

Originally cultivated in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have spread their culinary influence to areas all over the world. Besides being an excellent vegan and gluten-free source of protein and fiber, chickpeas also contain exceptional levels of iron, vitamin B-6 and magnesium.