Chole Bhature | Chole Bhature Recipe

Chole Bhature is one of the most popular dishes in North India. It is a delicious and filling meal that people enjoy for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This Chole Bhature Recipe comes from Punjab, a state in North India. It became famous in the 1940s, especially in the streets of Delhi and Amritsar. Over time, Chole Bhature became a common food in restaurants, street stalls, and even home kitchens. This dish is not only loved in India but also in many other countries where people enjoy Indian food. Chole Bhature is always served hot with sliced onions, green chilies, and tangy Pickles. Many people also drink a glass of lassi with it. If you love Indian food, you should definitely try this dish.

What is Chole Bhature Recipe?

Chole Bhature is a famous North Indian dish that many people love. It is a tasty and filling meal, eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This dish has two main parts, Chole and Bhature. Chole is a spicy and flavorful curry made with chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, and Indian spices. Bhature is a soft and fluffy deep-fried bread made from flour. When eaten together, they create a perfect mix of flavors, the spicy Chole and the crispy, slightly chewy Bhature taste amazing.

Chole Bhature is one of the most popular street foods in North India. You can find it in small roadside stalls, restaurants, and even at home, as many people enjoy cooking it for special occasions. It is usually served hot with sliced onions, Pickles, and green chilies. Some people also drink a glass of cold lassi with it to balance the spicy taste. The mix of different flavors makes it a favorite dish for many food lovers.

How to Make Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a famous North Indian dish made with spicy chickpea curry (Chole) and crispy fried bread (Bhature). Making Chole Bhature at home is simple if you follow the right steps. Follow the step-by-step recipe and enjoy homemade Chole Bhature with your family.

Cooking Chole (Chickpea Curry)

Step 1:- Take 2 cups of chickpeas and wash them well with water. Soak them in a large bowl with 4–5 cups of water overnight (for at least 8 hours).

Step 2:- The chickpeas will become soft and double in size. In the morning, drain the water and keep the soaked chickpeas aside.

Step 3:- Take a pressure cooker and add the soaked chickpeas. Pour 2 cups of fresh water and add ½ teaspoon salt. Close the lid and cook on medium heat for 5–6 whistles (about 15 minutes).Adding a tea bag or dried amla (Indian gooseberry) while boiling chickpeas gives them a rich brown color like in restaurants.

Step 4:- Turn off the stove and let the pressure release naturally. Open the lid and check if the chickpeas are soft by pressing one between your fingers. It should mash easily. If they are still hard, cook for 2 more whistles. Remove the tea bag before using the chickpeas in the curry.

Step 5:- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a deep pan on medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and let them crackle.

Step 6:- Add tomato- onion paste and stir well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the oil starts separating from the mixture.

Step 7:- Add 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1 teaspoon garam masala, and 1 teaspoon chole masala (optional). Stir well and cook for 2 minutes so the spices mix properly.

Step 8:- Now, add the boiled chickpeas along with the water from the pressure cooker. Mix well and let it cook on low heat for 10 minutes so the flavors blend.

Step 9:- If the curry is too thick, add a little water and mix. Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice for a tangy taste.

Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Your delicious Chole (Chickpea Curry) is ready.

Making Bhature (Fried Bread)

Step 10:- Take a large mixing bowl and add the ingredients- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida), ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon sugar, ½ cup curd (yogurt) and 1 tablespoon oil. Mix everything well using your hands or a spoon.

Step 11:- Slowly add a little water (about ¼ to ½ cup) and start kneading. Knead well for 8–10 minutes to make a soft and smooth dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If the dough is too dry, add a few drops of water and knead again.

Step 12:- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 2 hours. This helps the dough become soft and fluffy.

Step 13:- After 2 hours, knead the dough again for 1–2 minutes. Divide it into small equal portions and roll each into a round ball. Dust a rolling board with a little flour to prevent sticking.

Step 14:- Take one dough ball and roll it out using a rolling pin. Make a round or oval shape, slightly thicker than a roti.

Step 15:- Take a deep pan or kadai and pour enough oil for deep frying. Heat the oil on medium-high flame. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough in it. If the dough floats up quickly, the oil is hot and ready.

Step 16:- Carefully slide one rolled Bhatura into the hot oil. It will start puffing up. Lightly press it with a ladle to help it puff more. Fry for 30–40 seconds on one side until golden brown.

Step 17:- Flip it and fry for another 20–30 seconds on the other side. Once done, remove the Bhatura using a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel to remove extra oil.

Repeat the same process for all Bhature. Your soft and crispy Bhature (Fried Bread) is ready. Serve hot with Chole (Chickpea Curry) and enjoy.

Serving Chole Bhature

Serving Chole Bhature the right way makes the meal even more enjoyable. Follow these steps to serve it perfectly:

Step 18:- Once the chickpea curry (Chole) is ready, stir it well and check the consistency. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a small dollop of butter for extra richness.

Step 19:- Bhature tastes best when served immediately after frying. Make sure they are golden, crispy on the outside, and soft inside. Place them on a paper towel to remove extra oil before serving.

Step 20:- Add the Perfect Side Items:

Sliced Onions: Adds a crunchy, fresh taste to balance the rich curry.
Pickles: A spicy or tangy pickle (mango, chili, or mixed) enhances the overall flavor.
Green Chilies: For those who love an extra spicy kick.

Step 21:- A cold glass of lassi (sweet or salty) helps balance the spice and makes the meal complete.

Serve everything on a plate while it’s hot and fresh. Eat Bhature by dipping them into the spicy Chole and enjoy the burst of flavors. This dish is best enjoyed with family and friends, so share and have fun.

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Expert Tips for Perfect Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a delicious and popular North Indian dish loved by many. While it may seem simple to make, a few expert tips can help you achieve the perfect taste and texture just like restaurants. These expert tips will guide you. Follow them carefully, and you will enjoy a homemade Chole Bhature that tastes amazing every time.

Use Fresh Spices for Best Flavor:- Fresh spices give a strong and rich taste to the curry.

Tea Bag for Dark Color (Restaurant Style Chole):- Adding a tea bag or dried amla (Indian gooseberry) while boiling chickpeas gives them a rich brown color like in restaurants. Remove the tea bag before using the chickpeas in the curry.

Mash Some Chickpeas for a Thicker Gravy:- After cooking, mash a few chickpeas with a spoon to make the gravy thick and creamy. This helps the flavors mix well and gives a nice texture.

Slow Cooking for Best Taste:- Let the Chole cook on low heat for 10–15 minutes after adding the boiled chickpeas. This allows all the spices to mix properly and enhances the flavor.

Use Butter or Ghee for Rich Taste:- Adding a spoon of butter or ghee while cooking makes the curry richer and tastier. You can also add a little cream for a smoother texture.

Lemon Juice for Extra Flavor:- Always add lemon juice at the end of cooking. This keeps the fresh, tangy taste and makes the dish more flavorful.

Knead the Dough Well for Soft Bhature:- Knead the dough for at least 8–10 minutes to make it soft and smooth. Soft dough helps Bhature puff up and become fluffy when fried.

Rest the Dough for Proper Fermentation:- Let the dough rest for 2 to 3 hours before rolling Bhature. This helps Bhature become light, fluffy, and easy to digest.

Use Warm Water for Softer Dough:- When kneading the dough, use slightly warm water instead of cold water. This helps in proper mixing and makes Bhature softer.

Roll the Bhature to Medium Thickness:- Do not roll the Bhature too thin or they won’t puff up. If they are too thick, they might not cook properly inside.

Check Oil Temperature Before Frying:- The oil should be hot but not smoky. Test by dropping a small piece of dough in the oil—if it floats up quickly, the oil is ready.

Fry One Bhatura at a Time:- Frying one at a time ensures even cooking and helps it puff up fully. Use a ladle to press lightly in the oil to help it puff up.

Drain Extra Oil for Less Greasy Bhature:- After frying, place Bhature on a paper towel to remove excess oil. This makes them crispy without being too oily.

Serve Bhature Hot and Fresh:- Bhature taste best when served immediately after frying. If they sit for too long, they may become chewy and hard.

By following these expert tips, you will make perfect, restaurant-style Chole Bhature every time.

Recipe Card

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Chole Bhature | Chole Bhature Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes

1 Cup= 240 ml, 1 Tablespoon = 15ml, 1 Teaspoon = 5ml

Serves: 5 People

Ingredients

For Chole (Chickpea Curry):

Chickpeas:- 2 cups (soaked overnight)
Onions:- 2 large (finely chopped)
Tomatoes:- 2 large (pureed)
Ginger-Garlic Paste:- 1 tablespoon
Green Chilies:- 2 (chopped)
Oil or Ghee:- 2 tablespoons
Cumin Seeds:- 1 teaspoon
Turmeric Powder:- 1 teaspoon
Red Chili Powder:- 1 teaspoon
Coriander Powder:- 1 teaspoon
Garam Masala:- 1 teaspoon
Chole Masala (Optional):- 1 teaspoon
Salt:- 1 teaspoon (or as per taste)
Water:- 2 cups
Fresh Coriander Leaves:- For garnish
Lemon Juice:- 1 teaspoon

For Bhature (Fried Bread):

All-Purpose Flour (Maida):- 2 cups
Curd (Yogurt):- ½ cup
Salt:- ½ teaspoon
Baking Soda:- ½ teaspoon
Sugar:- 1 teaspoon
Oil:- 1 tablespoon
Water:- As needed
Oil (for Deep Frying):- As needed

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Cooking Chole (Chickpea Curry)

Soak 2 cups of chickpeas in water overnight. Drain the water before cooking.
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked chickpeas, 2 cups of fresh water, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook for 5–6 whistles or until chickpeas are soft.
Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. When they start to crackle, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Stir for 1 minute.
Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, chole masala, and garam masala. Stir well.
Add the boiled chickpeas along with the water. Mix well and let it cook for 10 minutes on low heat.
Add lemon juice and mix. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Step 2: Making Bhature (Fried Bread)

In a mixing bowl, add all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, sugar, curd, and oil. Mix well.
Add a little water and knead into a soft dough. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 2 hours.
After resting, knead the dough again for a few minutes.
Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a round shape (like a roti but thicker).
Heat oil in a deep pan. Once hot, carefully place one rolled dough in the oil.
Fry until the Bhature puffs up and turns golden brown. Flip and cook the other side.
Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Repeat for all Bhature.
Step 3: Serving Chole Bhature
Serve hot Chole with freshly fried Bhature.
Add sliced onions, Pickles, and green chilies on the side.
Enjoy with a glass of cold lassi for the best taste.

Tip: You can also add butter on top of Chole for extra flavor.

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How to Store and Reheat Chole Bhature

If you have leftover Chole Bhature, you can store and reheat them properly to enjoy later. Follow these easy steps:

How to Store Chole (Chickpea Curry)

Cool Down First:- Let the Chole cool down completely before storing. Do not put hot food directly in the fridge, as it can spoil quickly.

Use an Airtight Container:- Store the Chole in a clean, airtight container to keep it fresh. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work best.

Refrigeration (For Short-Term Storage):- You can keep Chole in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Always keep it covered to avoid absorbing other food smells.

Freezing (For Long-Term Storage):- If you want to store Chole for longer (up to 1 month), freeze it in a freezer-safe container. Divide into small portions so you can reheat only what you need.

How to Reheat Chole

Reheating on Stove:- Pour the Chole into a pan and heat on low flame. Add a little water if it looks too thick. Stir well and cook for 5–7 minutes until hot.

Reheating in Microwave:- Transfer the Chole to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a lid or a plate (to prevent splashes). Heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring in between. Add a little water if needed.

Enhancing Flavor:- Before serving, you can add fresh coriander leaves, a spoon of butter, or a squeeze of lemon juice to refresh the taste.

How to Store Bhature (Fried Bread)

Cool Completely Before Storing:- Let Bhature cool down fully before storing. Storing hot Bhature will make them soft and soggy.

Use an Airtight Container:- Store Bhature in a clean, dry, airtight container. Keep a paper towel inside to absorb any extra oil.

Refrigeration (For Short-Term Storage):- Bhature stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1 day. They may become a little hard, so reheating is necessary.

Freezing (For Long-Term Storage):- If you want to store them longer, freeze Bhature in a ziplock bag for up to 1 month. Separate each Bhatura with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

How to Reheat Bhature

Reheating on Stove (Best Method):- Heat a tawa (flat pan) on medium flame. Place the Bhatura on the tawa and heat for 1–2 minutes on each side. Press lightly with a spatula to make it warm evenly.

Reheating in Oven:- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Wrap Bhature in aluminum foil and heat for 5–7 minutes. This helps them stay soft and warm.

Reheating in Microwave (Quick Method):- Place Bhature on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave for 20–30 seconds.

Final Tips

Do not store Chole Bhature for too long—always eat fresh for the best taste!
Always reheat only the portion you need to avoid repeated heating.
If Bhature feel too dry after reheating, apply a little butter or ghee for extra softness.

By following these steps, you can store and reheat Chole Bhature properly and enjoy them just like fresh.

Nutritional Value of Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a delicious and filling North Indian dish, offering a rich combination of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. While it is a flavorful and satisfying meal, it is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content. Here’s the detailed nutritional breakdown per serving (1 plate – 1 bowl of Chole and 2 Bhature).

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value (Based on a 2,000-Calorie Diet)	Health Benefits
Calories	450-500 kcal	25%	Provides a rich energy boost, making it a satisfying and fulfilling meal.
Protein	12 g	24%	Chickpeas offer plant-based protein, which supports muscle repair and body functions.
Carbohydrates	60 g	20%	Provides sustained energy, keeping you full for a long time.
- Dietary Fiber	8 g	32%	Aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps control cholesterol levels.
- Sugars	5 g	-	Naturally present in tomatoes and onions, giving a slight sweetness to the curry.
Total Fat	15 g	22%	Bhature contains healthy fats, adding flavor and texture to the meal.
- Saturated Fat	4.5 g	22%	Comes from deep frying; should be consumed in moderation for heart health.
Cholesterol	10 mg	3%	Minimal cholesterol content, making it a better option than other fried foods.
Sodium	600 mg	26%	Well-seasoned dish; limiting additional salt can help maintain a balanced diet.
Potassium	400 mg	9%	Helps regulate fluid balance and muscle function.
Calcium	100 mg	10%	Supports bone health, mainly from chickpeas and curd used in Bhature.
Iron	3 mg	17%	Chickpeas are a good source of iron, which helps in oxygen transport and energy production.
Vitamin A	250 IU	5%	Supports vision health and boosts immunity, contributed by tomatoes and spices.
Vitamin C	6 mg	8%	Helps improve immunity and enhances iron absorption.
Magnesium	30 mg	8%	Supports muscle relaxation and overall metabolism.
Phosphorus	120 mg	12%	Essential for strong bones and energy production.
Zinc	1 mg	9%	Boosts immunity and supports wound healing.
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg	15%	Supports brain function and helps in neurotransmitter production.
Folate (B9)	40 mcg	10%	Helps with cell function and tissue repair.
Vitamin E	0.5 mg	4%	Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
Copper	0.1 mg	5%	Helps in iron absorption and supports red blood cell production.
Selenium	8 mcg	15%	Aids thyroid function and reduces oxidative stress.
Manganese	0.3 mg	12%	Supports metabolism and bone health, mainly from spices like cumin and coriander.

Enjoy your Chole Bhature with a tangy pickle, fresh salad, and a glass of lassi for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Chole Bhature is one of the most loved dishes in North India. Making Chole Bhature at home is easier than you think. By following the step-by-step recipe, you can ensure that your Bhature turn out soft and puffy while your Chole is rich and flavorful. If you want a healthier version, you can bake or air-fry the Bhature and adjust the spice levels according to your taste. This dish is best enjoyed with sliced onions, green chilies, pickles, and a glass of cold lassi.

So, gather your ingredients, and start cooking this delightful treat today. Share your feedback and let us know how your Chole Bhature turned out. We would love to hear about your cooking experience and any special tips you used. Enjoy this homemade classic and treat yourself to the authentic taste of North India.

FAQs About Chole Bhature Recipe

Here are some common questions and answers to help you make the perfect Chole Bhature at home.

1. What is Chole Bhature?
Ans:- Chole Bhature is a famous North Indian dish made of spicy chickpea curry (Chole) and deep-fried bread (Bhature). It is a popular street food and is enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

2. Can I make Bhature without yeast?
Ans:- Yes. Instead of yeast, you can use baking soda and curd (yogurt) to make soft and fluffy Bhature. Just let the dough rest for 2-3 hours before frying.

3. How to make Chole thicker?
Ans:- To make Chole thick:- Mash a few cooked chickpeas and mix them back into the curry. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce extra water. Add a little chickpea flour (besan) to thicken the gravy.

4. Can I make Bhature without maida (all-purpose flour)?
Ans:- Yes, you can use whole wheat flour (atta) instead of maida. However, the texture will be different—wheat Bhature will be less crispy and slightly denser.

5. Can I make Chole without soaking chickpeas?
Ans:- Yes, Use canned chickpeas if you forgot to soak them. If using dry chickpeas, you can boil them in a pressure cooker for 15 minutes with a pinch of baking soda to soften them quickly.

6. What can I serve with Chole Bhature?
Ans:- Chole Bhature tastes best with:

Sliced onions and green chilies.
Mango or lemon Pickles
A glass of cold lassi.

7. How to make Chole spicier or less spicy?
Ans:- To make it spicier, add more red chili powder, green chilies, or garam masala. To make it less spicy, reduce chili powder and add some fresh cream or yogurt to balance the flavors.

8. Is Chole Bhature healthy?
Ans:- Chole Bhature is a tasty but heavy meal. Chickpeas are healthy as they are rich in protein and fiber, but Bhature is deep-fried, which makes it high in calories. Enjoy it in moderation and pair it with a fresh salad or yogurt for a balanced meal.

9. Can I make Bhature in an air fryer?
Ans:- Yes. You can air-fry Bhature instead of deep-frying them. Brush them with a little oil and air-fry at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown. The texture will be slightly different but healthier.

10. How to make soft and fluffy Bhature?

Ans:- To get soft and fluffy Bhature:

Let the dough rest for at least 2-3 hours.
Use curd (yogurt) and baking soda for fermentation.
Roll Bhature evenly, not too thick or too thin.
Fry in hot oil at the right temperature (not too low or too high).

11. Can I make Chole without onion and garlic?
Ans:- Yes. You can make a no-onion, no-garlic version by using tomatoes, ginger, and yogurt for flavor. Add asafoetida (hing) and cumin seeds for extra taste.

12. Why are my Bhature not puffing up?
Ans:- If your Bhature are not puffing up:

The oil might not be hot enough—heat it properly before frying.
The dough may not be rested well—let it ferment for at least 2 hours.
The Bhature may be rolled too thin—roll them slightly thick for better puffing.

13. Can I cook Chole without a pressure cooker?
Ans:- Yes! If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can cook chickpeas in a regular pot.

Boil soaked chickpeas in water with salt and a pinch of baking soda.
Cook on medium heat for 60-90 minutes until they are soft.
Check by pressing a chickpea—it should mash easily.

Chole Bhature | Chole Bhature Recipe

What is Chole Bhature Recipe?