Bihari Green Peas Bharbhara (Bihari Style Chickpea Flour and Peas Pancake)
Bihari Green Peas Bharbhara is a flavorful and crispy cheela made from chickpea flour and fresh green peas, creating a delightful snack that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Traditionally enjoyed in Bihar during the winter season when peas are in abundance, this dish combines the earthy taste of gram flour with aromatic spices, making it an irresistible treat. Whether served as an appetizer or paired with masala tea, this snack will bring warmth and comfort to your day.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green peas | 2/3 cup |
| Gram flour (Besan) | 2 cups |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Green chillies, finely chopped | 1 tbsp |
| Ginger, grated | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Cumin powder | 1 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Red chilli powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As needed |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine gram flour (besan), finely chopped onion, green chillies, grated ginger, garam masala powder, black pepper powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Gradually add water to this mixture while stirring until it forms a smooth, slightly thick batter that spreads easily on the pan. -
Heat the Pan:
Heat a non-stick pan or griddle on medium heat. Ensure the pan is sufficiently hot before spreading the batter, as a hot pan prevents the batter from sticking. -
Cook the Bharbhara:
Once the pan is hot, spread the prepared mixture evenly onto the surface of the pan. Allow it to cook on medium-low heat. The batter should form a slightly crispy texture on the bottom without sticking to the pan. -
Fry the Bharbhara:
Drizzle a small amount of oil on top of the batter and gently press it down with a spatula. Flip the bharbhara carefully after a few minutes to cook the other side. Continue frying until both sides are golden brown and crispy, ensuring that it cooks evenly. -
Serving:
Once both sides are cooked, remove the bharbhara from the pan. Serve immediately with a side of fresh coriander mint chutney or masala tea for the perfect combination. Enjoy the warm, crispy texture of this traditional Bihari snack!
Tips:
- Adjust the consistency of the batter by adding water slowly. It should be thick enough to spread easily but not runny.
- You can also experiment by adding chopped coriander leaves or grated vegetables like carrots to enhance the flavor and texture.
- For a richer flavor, serve with a dollop of yogurt or chutney alongside masala tea.
This Bihari Green Peas Bharbhara is a delightful and wholesome snack that embodies the essence of Bihar’s culinary traditions. Perfect for cold evenings, this dish brings a burst of flavors with each bite, making it a must-try recipe for any home cook looking to explore authentic regional dishes.
