Chana Bhatura

# Chana Bhatura Recipe: A Taste of India at Mom’s Dosa in Cloverdale

## Introduction/Description
Welcome to Mom’s Dosa, where we bring the essence of Indian cuisine to Cloverdale! Today, we’re excited to share our Chana Bhatura recipe, a beloved dish that combines hearty chickpeas simmered in spices with fluffy, deep-fried bread known as bhatura. This classic North Indian meal is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Get ready to treat your taste buds with this delightful, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

## Ingredients List
For the **Chana (Chickpeas)**:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, pureed
– 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons cooking oil
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

For the **Bhatura**:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Water as needed
– Oil for deep frying

## Instructions/Steps
### For the **Chana**:
1. **Prepare the Chickpeas**: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse them before cooking. If using canned chickpeas, skip this step.

2. **Cook the Chickpeas**: In a pressure cooker, add the soaked chickpeas, 3 cups of water, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 20 minutes or until tender. If using canned chickpeas, you can skip this step and add them directly to the gravy.

3. **Make the Gravy**: In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle. Then add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

4. **Add the Spices**: Stir in ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Cook for a couple of minutes, then add the pureed tomatoes.

5. **Simmer the mixture**: Once the oil starts to separate from the mixture, add coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well and let it cook for around 5 minutes.

6. **Add Chickpeas**: Now, add the cooked chickpeas to the pan. Mix everything well, adjust the seasoning if necessary, and simmer for another 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

### For the **Bhatura**:
1. **Make the Dough**: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, yogurt, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add water and knead to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Cover and let it rest for at least 2 hours.

2. **Shape the Bhaturas**: After resting, divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into flat circles about a quarter-inch thick.

3. **Fry the Bhaturas**: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the rolled-out bhatura. Fry until it puffs up and turns golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

## Cooking Time
– **Preparation Time**: 15 minutes (excluding chickpea soaking time)
– **Cooking Time**: 45 minutes
– **Total Time**: 1 hour

## Serving Size
Serves 4 people.

## Tips and Variations
– **Soaking Chickpeas**: Soaking chickpeas overnight helps them cook faster and enhances their texture.
– **Make Ahead**: The chana can be prepared in advance and reheated when ready to serve.
– **Whole Wheat Bhatura**: For a healthier option, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
– **Spicy Variation**: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to make it spicier according to your preference.

**Disclaimer**: This recipe for Chana Bhatura is provided as a reference and may not reflect the exact methods or ingredients used at Mom’s Dosa restaurant in Cloverdale. We recommend visiting us to experience the authentic flavors of our dishes!

At Mom’s Dosa, we take pride in offering traditional Indian meals that warm the heart and satisfy the soul. Explore our menu today and delight in the rich variety of flavors that Indian cuisine has to offer!