Bhojpuri Style Bharbhara: A Flavorful, Healthy Snack for All Ages
Bhojpuri Style Bharbhara is a delightful and savory snack hailing from the vibrant culinary traditions of Bihar. Traditionally enjoyed as a crispy fried fritter, this recipe has been reimagined to offer a healthier alternative by shallow frying the batter in a pan, similar to a pancake. The dish combines the rich flavors of gram flour (besan) and green peas (matar), accented by an aromatic blend of spices such as red chili powder, chaat masala, and cumin powder. Perfect for a quick after-school snack or an afternoon tea treat, this recipe is an easy-to-make, delectable dish that will satisfy both adults and kids alike.
Whether you’re looking for a snack to pair with a cup of Masala Chai or want to serve something special for your little ones, Bhojpuri Style Bharbhara will surely hit the spot with its crunchy texture and bold flavors. Let’s dive into this simple, vegetarian delight!
Ingredients for Bhojpuri Style Bharbhara
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gram flour (besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Green peas (matar), blanched | 1/2 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Green chili, finely chopped | 1 |
| Red chili powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chaat masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Oil, for shallow frying | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Bihari
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Bhojpuri Style Bharbhara
-
Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), blanched green peas (matar), finely chopped onion, chopped green chili, red chili powder, chaat masala powder, and cumin powder.
- Gradually add water to the mixture to create a smooth, slightly thick batter. Ensure the batter is not too runny, but just thick enough to hold its shape when cooked.
- Season the batter with salt to taste, and give it a good mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
-
Cook the Bharbhara:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat. Once hot, lightly grease it with a small amount of oil.
- Pour a small ladleful of the batter onto the skillet, shaping it into a small, thick pancake. Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges of the batter.
- Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes on the first side, until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy. Flip it over gently and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side.
- Once both sides are golden and crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Repeat the process for the remaining batter.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Bhojpuri Style Bharbhara hot, accompanied by a refreshing fruit smoothie for kids as an after-school snack. Alternatively, pair it with a hot cup of Masala Chai for a delightful tea-time treat.
Tips and Variations:
- For a crispier texture: You can add a bit more oil while shallow frying to achieve an extra crispy crust.
- For a twist of flavor: Feel free to experiment with other spices such as turmeric or garam masala, depending on your preference.
- Kid-friendly option: Adjust the level of spice according to the age group you’re serving. You can omit or reduce the green chili and red chili powder for a milder version for younger children.
Bhojpuri Style Bharbhara is not just a snack; it’s a burst of flavors and textures that bring the essence of Bihari cuisine right to your kitchen. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, loved by everyone from kids to adults. So, whether you’re looking for a wholesome after-school treat or a crispy bite alongside your afternoon chai, this recipe is the perfect addition to your cooking repertoire.
