Authentic Chola Bhuna Recipe –Making Spicy Chickpeas for Iftar

One of the Chola Bhuna, Gobi Bhuna, or spicy chickpeas is a traditional dish in Bangladeshi homes and restaurants during Ramzan. Iftar meal must not be over here with a flavourful & protein-rich dish of this kind. It is delicious, and healthy, and gives you energy for a long day of fasting. A dish of chickpeas seasoned with warm spices makes a delicious meal to serve with parathi, naan, or muri (puffed rice).

History and Significance of Eating Chickpeas

A staple in South Asian cuisine Chola Bhuna is indeed a must-have iftar dish in Bangladesh (fitters are common iftar accompaniments here & with dates). Slow-cooked chickpeas seasoned traditionally to local Bengali taste, this recipe is inspired by both Mughlai and Bengali cuisine.

Some Health Benefits Of Chola Bhuna

Chola Bhuna is yummy and here is the good news, it is also healthy!

High in protein: Chickpeas are one of the better plant-based proteins.

High in Fiber: It aids digestion after the fast but prevents bloating.

Essential Vitamins: Chickpeas are an amazing source of iron and magnesium to give you an extra boost.

Maintains Blood Sugar Level: The slow release of energy from complex carbs in the chickpeas gives your body energy slowly without the sugar rush.

Benefits Heart: By getting the mixture of chickpeas and healthy spices it facilitates heart-related health.

Ingredients for Chola Bhuna

To Make A Perfect Authentic Flavorful and Spicy Chola Bhuna you will need these below ingredients:

Main Ingredients: Canned/cold soak chickpeas (soaked overnight 2 cups)

2 medium onions (finely chopped)

2 tomatoes (chopped)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

4 or 5 green chilies (slit)

1 tablespoon ginger paste

Garlic paste (1 tbsp.)

2 tablespoons mustard oil (or vegetable oil)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1/4 cup coriander powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 generously salted ( or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Fresh coriander leaves f

r garnish

Soaking is Important

Step: Step-By-Step Directions for Cooking

Step 1: Chickpeas Rinse with cold water and treat If you buy dried chickpeas, overnight Soaking Put them in a bowl; they should absorb the entire water within an hourDo you want canned chickpeas? Canned

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics Heat mustard oil until sizzling hot in a pan. Turn the heat down & add the cumin seeds. Soak them up, then add chopped onion and sauté until golden.

Step 3: Fry the Spices Take ginger and garlic paste with the sugar left from the last step. Next, add diced tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder & salt. Stir well and cook until the tomatoes get soft, and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

Step 4: Add the Chickpeas Add the pan-fried chickpeas to the identical pan, and mix well with the spice blend. Stir constantly so that the chickpeas are fully coated.

Step 5: Simmer and Develop Flavours If the mixture is too dry, just add 1/2 cup of water. Simmer on low heat covered for 10 – 15 minutes, the rest of your flavors will blend together. Stir occasionally to stop burning.

Step 6: Final Touch Complement with garam masala, green chilies, and a drizzle of lemon juice. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring well. Add Fresh coriander leaves on top. Serving Suggestions Chola Bhuna can be eaten in the following ways: To get a complete meal ordered in your paratha or naan.

It makes for a perfect light crunchy snack when paired with muri (puffed rice). For wraps or sandwiches as a filling. Perfect for a side bowl of fitters and beguni or iftar items.

Tips for the best Chola Bhuna

Yield Soaked: Soaking your chickpeas overnight guarantees a soft texture in just 45 minutes or a soft cooking time.

Use Fresh Spices: use freshly ground spices to add flavor to the cooking.

Love the Taste of Mustard Oil — If you love how it tastes, use it instead of Vegetables.

Tweak Spices: Customize the amount of chili according to your spice rendition to taste.

Final Thoughts

Chola Bhuna IS MUST HAVE FOR THE IFTER It has a rich taste and varying nutrition levels easy to prepare. If you are planning either a get-together or just working on a very simple family meal this spicy chickpea will be a crowd-pleaser! Give this at-home recipe a try to savor the authentic taste of Bangladeshi food. Let us know your opinion and feedback in the Chola Bhuna comments!