Chilka Roti Recipe (Jharkhand Style Rice and Lentil Roti)
Chilka Roti, a beloved breakfast dish from the state of Jharkhand, is a savory and satisfying preparation made from rice and chana dal (Bengal gram). This dish is both nutritious and hearty, offering a wholesome start to your day with a perfect balance of carbohydrates and proteins. The simplicity of the recipe makes it an ideal choice for a weekday breakfast, as it requires minimal effort and ingredients but delivers big on flavor. Traditionally served with Lahsun ki Chutney (a spicy garlic chutney) and Baingan ka Chokha (mashed spiced eggplant), this dish embodies the rustic flavors of North India, particularly Jharkhand.
Whether you are looking to explore the regional flavors of Jharkhand or searching for a protein-packed vegetarian breakfast, Chilka Roti is an excellent choice to enjoy the rich culinary heritage of the region. Let’s take a closer look at how you can prepare this easy, healthy, and delicious dish right in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1-1/2 cups (soaked overnight) |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 3/4 cup (soaked overnight) |
| Oil | For greasing the skillet and cooking |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4-5 servings
Instructions:
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Soak the Rice and Chana Dal: Begin by washing the rice and chana dal thoroughly. Soak them in water overnight to allow them to soften and absorb water. This step is crucial as it helps in making the crepes smooth and easy to cook.
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Grind the Mixture: The following morning, rinse the soaked rice and dal in water. Using a mixer grinder, grind the soaked rice and chana dal into a smooth batter, adding just a little water as needed. The consistency of the batter should be thicker than a typical dosa batter but smooth enough to spread.
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Whisk the Batter: Once the mixture is ground, transfer it to a bowl. Season it with salt to taste. Whisk the batter vigorously for a few minutes to incorporate air into the mixture. This helps to make the rotis soft and light, ensuring a fluffy texture.
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Heat the Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet or tawa over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil. You can use a kitchen towel to spread a thin layer of oil over the surface for even cooking.
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Cook the Chilka Roti: Pour a ladle full of the prepared rice and chana dal batter onto the hot skillet. Use the back of the ladle to spread it out evenly in circular motions, just like you would when making a dosa. The batter should spread easily, creating a thin, even layer.
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Add Oil and Cook: Drizzle a teaspoon of oil around the edges of the roti to help it cook evenly. Allow the roti to cook for about 2 minutes on medium heat or until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy.
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Flip and Cook the Other Side: Once the bottom is nicely cooked, carefully flip the roti using a spatula. Let it cook on the other side for another 1-2 minutes, or until the surface is slightly golden and crispy.
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Serve: Once both sides are cooked, remove the Chilka Roti from the skillet and place it on a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, making sure to grease the skillet lightly between each batch.
Serve the Chilka Roti hot with Lahsun ki Chutney (Spicy Garlic Chutney) and Baingan ka Chokha (Mashed Spiced Eggplant) for an authentic Jharkhand-style breakfast.
Tips:
- Consistency of the Batter: If the batter becomes too thick, you can add a small amount of water to adjust the consistency, but be careful not to make it too runny.
- Cooking Tips: Make sure the skillet is not too hot when you pour the batter, as it may cause the roti to cook unevenly. Medium heat ensures a golden brown and crispy texture on both sides.
- Variations: You can also add finely chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, or coriander leaves to the batter for added flavor and nutrition.
Chilka Roti is an excellent source of protein from the chana dal and carbohydrates from the rice, making it a perfect option for a fulfilling breakfast or a light meal. With its crispy texture and savory taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation.
Enjoy this traditional Jharkhand dish, and don’t forget to serve it with your favorite chutneys and side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal!
