Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature Recipe

Chole Bhature is a beloved North Indian dish that combines spicy chickpea curry (chole) with deep-fried bread (bhature). This flavorful and indulgent combination is a staple in Indian households and is equally adored in restaurants across the world. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of making Chole Bhature at home, so you can savor this delicious dish whenever you desire.


Chole Bhature Ingredients

For Chole (Chickpea Curry):

  • 2 cups of dried chickpeas (chole), soaked overnight
  • 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Cooking oil
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For Bhature (Fried Bread):

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour (maida)
  • 1/2 cup of yogurt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
  • Salt to taste
  • Water for kneading
  • Oil for deep frying

Cooking Instructions for Chole Bhature

Making Chole (Chickpea Curry):

Step 1: Cook Chickpeas

Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them. In a pressure cooker, add the chickpeas with enough water and cook until they are soft and tender. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes after the first whistle. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala Base

Heat oil in a large pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté until they release their aroma.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onions, green chilies, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes

Stir in the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

Step 5: Spices and Chickpeas

Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well. Add the cooked chickpeas and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Simmer and Garnish

Add garam masala and a little water to adjust the consistency of the curry. Simmer for a few more minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Making Bhature (Fried Bread):

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, yogurt, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Knead the mixture into a soft and smooth dough. Add water as needed.

Step 2: Rest the Dough

Coat the dough with a little oil, cover it, and let it rest for at least 2 hours. This allows it to ferment and become soft.

Step 3: Shape the Bhature

Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it with your palms. Roll out each ball into a circular shape, about 6-7 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Deep Fry

Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the rolled bhature. Fry them until they puff up and turn golden brown on both sides. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Serving Chole Bhature

Serve the hot and spicy chole with the soft and fluffy bhature. Accompany this delightful combination with chopped onions, lemon wedges, and a side of pickles for an authentic North Indian experience.

Try out our Aloo Gobhi and Aloo Paratha Recipe