Paapri Chaat – Chickpea Chaat
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 6 people
Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Rating: 4.1 (35 votes)
Views: 39,856
Introduction:
Paapri Chaat, a beloved Indian street food, is a crispy, tangy, and delightful treat that will tickle your taste buds with the perfect balance of spices. Featuring crunchy, homemade paapri (crispy flour discs) topped with chickpeas, yogurt, and an array of flavorful chutneys, this chaat is a celebration of textures and flavors. Whether served as a light snack or a part of a larger meal, Paapri Chaat is an experience that combines crispy, tangy, and spicy components in every bite.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Plain flour | 200g |
| Oil | 40g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ajwain seeds (carom seeds) | 1 tbsp |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed |
Allergen Information:
This recipe contains gluten (from the plain flour) and may contain traces of other allergens depending on the type of oil used for frying. Always check packaging for any specific allergen warnings.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: This recipe can be made vegan by substituting the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is not suitable for a gluten-free diet due to the use of plain flour. You can try substituting gluten-free flour blends if necessary.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour with salt and ajwain seeds. These carom seeds add a fragrant and slightly peppery flavor to the dough, making the paapri crispy and flavorful. -
Knead the Dough:
Add the oil to the flour mixture and begin kneading to form a soft, smooth dough. You may need to add a small amount of water (one tablespoon at a time) to bring the dough together. Knead until it’s firm yet pliable. -
Shape the Paapri:
Divide the dough into small portions, slightly larger than a gooseberry. Roll each portion into a ball and then roll them out into flat, round discs, about 4-5 cm in diameter. The thinner you roll them, the crispier the paapris will be once fried. -
Heat the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or wok to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Place the pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is at the right temperature for frying, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it floats to the surface and starts sizzling, the oil is ready. -
Fry the Paapri:
Carefully slide one dough disc into the hot oil. Fry the paapri for 2-3 minutes, occasionally pushing it under the oil with a spoon to ensure even cooking. Flip the paapri once the first side turns golden and crispy, and continue frying for another minute on the other side. Once done, remove the paapri from the oil and place it on a kitchen paper to drain excess oil. -
Repeat the Process:
Continue frying the remaining dough discs in batches. You can keep the finished paapris aside while you prepare the chickpea topping and garnishes for the chaat.
Serving:
Once the paapris have cooled down and drained of excess oil, arrange them on a serving platter. Top with cooked chickpeas (preferably soaked and boiled), yogurt, tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and sprinkle with chaat masala, red chili powder, and fresh cilantro. You can also add a dash of sweet chutney for added flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Chickpea Filling: You can cook chickpeas with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala to enhance the flavor of the filling.
- Chutneys: Tamarind chutney gives a sweet tanginess, while mint chutney adds a refreshing burst. Both complement the crunchy paapris wonderfully.
- Yogurt: Ensure the yogurt is chilled for a cool contrast against the warm, crispy paapri. You can also use dairy-free yogurt if you’re preparing a vegan version.
- Customization: If you prefer a milder chaat, reduce the amount of chili powder. For extra crunch, you can also add sev or pomegranate seeds.
Conclusion:
Paapri Chaat is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. The crispiness of the paapri combined with the spiced chickpeas and creamy yogurt will surely make this a hit at your next gathering. With a bit of preparation, you can create an authentic chaat experience right in your own kitchen. So, whether you’re serving it as a starter, snack, or part of a larger spread, Paapri Chaat is a delightful treat that brings the vibrant flavors of Indian street food to your table.
