Chana Jor Garam Chaat Recipe: A Spicy and Flavorful Indian Snack
Chana Jor Garam Chaat is a quintessential North Indian street food that perfectly balances the tangy, spicy, and savory flavors we all crave in a snack. This crispy, crunchy dish, made from black chickpeas (Kala Chana), is a popular snack in India and is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold, vibrant flavors. The crispy texture of the flattened chickpeas combined with aromatic spices makes it the ideal tea-time snack or a delightful munchie for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something spicy or looking for a quick, satisfying bite, this Chana Jor Garam Chaat recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (if pre-prepared)
Serves: 2-3 people
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana Jor Garam | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 3 |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon (roasted) |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chana Jor Garam:
To start, you need to prepare the chana jor garam (flattened chickpeas). Begin by soaking black chickpeas (Kala Chana) overnight in water. The next day, drain and boil them until they are soft and tender. Once boiled, flatten the chickpeas using a rolling pin, ensuring they are thin and crispy. -
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Dry the Flattened Chana:
After flattening the chickpeas, it’s important to dry them to achieve that signature crispy texture. You can either dry them under the sun or place them in an oven at a low temperature until they are completely dry. Once dry, the chana jor garam is ready to be used for the chaat. -
Cook the Flattened Chana (Optional):
While traditionally, the flattened chickpeas are crispy enough to eat as is, you can take it a step further for added flavor. Heat a little oil in a pan, add the flattened chana, and cook them on medium flame, stirring occasionally, for a few minutes. This step enhances the crispiness and gives it a deeper flavor. Once done, transfer the chana to a plate and set it aside. -
Mix the Ingredients for Chaat:
In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared chana jor garam. To this, add finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. Sprinkle the roasted cumin powder (jeera), amchur (dry mango powder), black salt (kala namak), and chaat masala powder. Add salt to taste, and mix all the ingredients together until evenly distributed. -
Add the Final Touches:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture for a zesty kick. Give it one final mix to incorporate the tangy citrus flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chana Jor Garam Chaat is ready to serve! You can enjoy this snack immediately as a light evening munchie, or even pack it for a picnic or road trip. It’s a great on-the-go option that will surely satisfy your snack cravings. If you like it even spicier, feel free to add more green chilies or a dash of red chili powder.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chana Jor Garam Chaat:
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Crispy Texture: To get the crispiest chana jor garam, ensure the chickpeas are properly dried. If using the oven, bake them at a low temperature (around 200°F) for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Customize Your Spices: The beauty of this chaat is its flexibility. Adjust the spices according to your preferences. Add a pinch of red chili powder or a dash of ginger powder if you like a bit more heat.
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Add Vegetables: For extra freshness and nutrition, feel free to add cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots to the mix. These crunchy veggies will add a nice balance to the spicy flavors.
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Toppings: Garnish with extra coriander leaves or pomegranate seeds for a burst of freshness and color.
Why You’ll Love Chana Jor Garam Chaat:
- Quick and Easy: This is a no-cook recipe if you already have your chana jor garam prepared, making it perfect for last-minute snack cravings.
- Healthy and Filling: Packed with fiber and protein, this chaat is not only tasty but also nutritious. It’s a great snack option for those looking to stay full without indulging in fried foods.
- Vibrant Flavors: The combination of tangy lemon juice, aromatic spices, and crunchy chana jor garam offers a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of spiciness or add extra ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you like it milder or hotter, this chaat can easily be adapted to your preferences.
Chana Jor Garam Chaat is the perfect snack for anyone who enjoys bold, tangy, and spicy flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a small gathering, a casual evening snack, or simply for yourself, this delightful dish is bound to impress. Make sure to keep some chana jor garam ready, and you’ll always have a flavorful snack at hand! Enjoy!
