Crispy Pyaz Kachori Chaat with Yogurt & Chutneys

Pyaz Kachori Chaat Recipe

An Irresistible North Indian Delight – A Crispy, Spiced Kachori with a Tangy Chaat Twist

Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients for Pyaz Kachori

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Kachori Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour (maida), 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons ghee. Mix them well until the mixture holds together when pressed into a ball. If necessary, add more ghee to get the desired texture.
2. Gradually add water little by little, kneading the mixture into a soft and smooth dough. Continue kneading for about 5 minutes to ensure the dough is smooth and pliable.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 to 2 hours to allow the gluten to relax and make it easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the Kachori Filling

1. While the dough rests, heat 1 tablespoon mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) and 1 teaspoon fennel seeds (saunf) to the pan, allowing them to sizzle and release their flavors.
3. Add 3 finely chopped onions, 1-inch piece of grated ginger, 2-3 chopped garlic cloves, and 2 chopped green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
4. Add 2 boiled and mashed potatoes to the pan. Stir well to combine the potatoes with the onions.
5. Now, add the spices:
   • 1 teaspoon coriander powder (dhania)
   • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (haldi)
   • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
   • 1 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
   • 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
   • Salt to taste
6. Mix everything thoroughly, then stir in chopped coriander leaves for added freshness. Turn off the heat and let the filling cool completely before using it.

Step 3: Shaping the Kachoris

1. Once the dough has rested, knead it again on a clean surface until smooth. Divide the dough into equal portions. Similarly, divide the cooled filling into equal portions.
2. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan for deep frying the kachoris.
3. Take one portion of dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Flatten it into a 3-inch circle.
4. Place a portion of the filling in the center of the circle. Bring the edges of the dough together, pinching and sealing them tightly to encase the filling.
5. Flatten the stuffed dough ball gently into a 3-inch circle with your fingers. Be careful not to press too hard, as you don’t want the filling to spill out.
6. Repeat the process for the remaining dough and filling portions.

Step 4: Frying the Kachoris

1. Once the oil is hot enough (test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil – it should sizzle and rise to the surface), fry the kachoris in small batches.
2. Fry for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the kachoris are golden brown, puffed up, and crispy.
3. Remove the fried kachoris and place them on a kitchen towel to absorb excess oil. Set them aside to cool.

Step 5: Preparing the Yogurt Mixture

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup curd (dahi/yogurt), 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder (jeera), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Set this aside.

Step 6: Preparing the Chutneys

1. If you haven’t already prepared the green chutney (made from coriander and mint) and sweet chutney (made from dates and tamarind), now is the time to do so. These chutneys add the essential tangy and sweet flavors to the chaat.

Step 7: Assembling the Pyaz Kachori Chaat

1. Place a crispy kachori on a serving plate. Gently break it open using your fingers or a fork to create a bit of space for the toppings.
2. Drizzle some of the prepared yogurt mixture over the kachori.
3. Add generous amounts of green chutney and sweet chutney on top.
4. Sprinkle some finely chopped onions over the kachori.
5. Add a handful of sev for crunch and texture.
6. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Pyaz Kachori Chaat immediately as an appetizer or snack, accompanied by a steaming cup of Masala Chai. This delightful chaat can also be served at parties alongside other chaat favorites like Peanut Chaat with Spiced Yogurt and Homemade Canape Papdi Chaat for a deliciously festive treat.

Tips & Variations

• For a more flavorful filling, you can also add chopped green bell peppers or peas to the potato mixture.
• If you want to make the kachoris spicier, increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder in the filling.
• You can store leftover chutneys in the refrigerator for a few days. They make a great accompaniment to other snacks as well.
• If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can bake the kachoris instead of deep frying them, but frying gives the kachoris that crispy, irresistible texture that is essential for the perfect chaat.

Enjoy this deliciously crispy and flavorful Pyaz Kachori Chaat as a delightful snack, perfect for any occasion or simply as a treat with your favorite chai!