High-Protein Kabuli Chana Chaat: A Healthy Chickpea Snack

Kabuli Chana Chaat – High Protein Chickpea Snack

Introduction

Kabuli Chana Chaat, a delightful and vibrant snack, is perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, vegetarian option that satisfies your taste buds. Made with nutrient-packed chickpeas, this dish combines fresh vegetables with zesty spices, making it an ideal snack or appetizer. Whether you’re serving it at a party, during tea time, or as a quick meal, this chaat is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

The dish not only offers a punch of protein from chickpeas but also provides essential vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and potatoes. With the right balance of spices, it’s a light yet filling snack that will leave you craving more. The addition of tangy lemon juice and amchur (dry mango powder) brings a refreshing twist, while the crispy aloo bhujia adds a delightful crunch.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Cuisine: North Indian

Course: Snack

Diet: High Protein, Vegetarian

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas:

   • Begin by soaking the Kabuli Chana (white chickpeas) in water for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This helps soften them and makes them easier to cook.
   • Once soaked, drain the chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly.
   • Pressure cook the chickpeas along with a pinch of salt for about 25 to 30 minutes, until they are soft but not mushy. Once done, set the chickpeas aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • In the meantime, boil the potato in a pressure cooker until soft. Once boiled, peel and finely chop the potato. Allow it to cool completely before using.
   • Chop the onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and green chilies into fine pieces. Set these aside in separate bowls.
   • Finely chop the fresh coriander leaves to garnish the chaat later.

3. Mixing the Chaat:

   • In a large mixing bowl, add the boiled and cooled chickpeas. Ensure that there is no excess water in the chickpeas, as it might make the chaat soggy.
   • Add the chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and boiled potato to the chickpeas. Mix gently.

4. Seasoning the Chaat:

   • Add the freshly chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, chaat masala, amchur (dry mango powder), and lemon juice to the mixture.
   • Season with salt according to your taste preference. Toss the mixture well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the spices coat the chickpeas and vegetables evenly.

5. Add the Crunch:

   • To give the chaat its signature crunch, sprinkle the aloo bhujia on top just before serving. The crispy texture of the aloo bhujia enhances the chaat’s flavor and provides a delightful contrast to the soft chickpeas and veggies.

6. Serving:

   • Adjust the salt and chaat masala if needed. If you prefer more spice, add extra chopped green chilies.
   • Serve the Kabuli Chana Chaat immediately as a tasty snack or appetizer.
   • For a complete meal, pair the chaat with other dishes like Spinach Paneer Kofta Curry, Garlic Naan, and Cauliflower & Cucumber Raita.

Tips for Perfect Kabuli Chana Chaat:

• Soaking the Chickpeas: Soak the chickpeas for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook evenly and are soft.
• Spice Adjustments: Adjust the level of spices (chaat masala, green chilies) to suit your taste. You can make it milder or spicier depending on your preference.
• Crispy Element: Always add the aloo bhujia right before serving to maintain its crunch. If you add it too early, it may become soggy.
• Vegan Variation: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by omitting any dairy-based garnishes if you prefer.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Conclusion

Kabuli Chana Chaat is not only a flavorful snack but also an incredibly nutritious option for those seeking a high-protein vegetarian dish. Packed with the goodness of chickpeas, vegetables, and spices, it’s a light yet filling choice that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick snack or serving it as an appetizer at a party, this dish will become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this healthy and delicious chaat!