Chatpati Chana Dal Chaat Recipe
Experience the perfect harmony of crunch, spice, and tang with this Chatpati Chana Dal Chaat recipe. This Indian-inspired snack is a healthier twist on the traditional deep-fried version, as we roast the chana dal in the oven. For those seeking an even lighter option, you can use an air fryer. Tossed with fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and a dash of lemon, this chaat makes a delightful tea-time companion. Serve it with steaming masala chai to elevate your snacking experience.
Recipe Overview
| Cuisine | Indian |
|---|---|
| Course | Snack |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 60 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 cup, washed and soaked overnight |
| Green Chilli | 1, finely chopped |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1/2, finely chopped |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | 1 teaspoon or to taste |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon | 1/2, juice extracted |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | Small bunch, chopped |
| Oil | For deep frying (optional for roasting) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Instructions
1. Preparing the Chana Dal
- Drain the soaked chana dal thoroughly and spread it on a clean kitchen towel to ensure all the water is absorbed.
- Once completely dry, place the chana dal in a mixing bowl. Add red chilli powder and black salt, and toss to coat the dal evenly. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes so the flavors infuse.
2. Roasting the Chana Dal
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Spread the seasoned chana dal evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the dal in the oven for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even roasting. The dal should turn crisp and golden brown.
- Optional: If using an air fryer, set the temperature to 160°C and roast the dal for 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
3. Assembling the Chaat
- Once the roasted chana dal cools to room temperature, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add finely chopped green chillies, onions, tomatoes, and coriander leaves.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and sprinkle chaat masala and additional black salt, if needed.
4. Adjusting Flavors
- Taste the chaat and adjust the salt, spice, and tanginess according to your preference.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Chatpati Chana Dal Chaat immediately for the best crunch, paired with a hot cup of masala chai.
Pro Tips
- Ensure the chana dal is completely dry before roasting to achieve a perfect crunch.
- You can add more toppings like pomegranate seeds, sev, or grated carrots for added flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a spicier version, increase the quantity of green chillies or add a pinch of ground cumin.
Enjoy this Chatpati Chana Dal Chaat Recipe as a wholesome snack that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber!
