Khara Obbattu (Spicy Potato-Stuffed Bread) Recipe
Introduction:
Khara Obbattu, also known as “Kara Obbattu,” is a popular dish hailing from the southern region of Karnataka, India. This savory version of the traditional Puran Poli (Sweet Obbattu) is packed with a fragrant and spicy potato filling, making it an irresistible delight for those who love bold, flavorful foods. Unlike the sweet variant, Khara Obbattu is more akin to a stuffed paratha, with a spicy mixture of onions, potatoes, and aromatic spices wrapped in a thin, crispy dough. It’s perfect for a hearty breakfast, a fulfilling snack, or as part of a festive meal.
Cuisine: Karnataka, India
Course: Main dish or snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1/4 cup |
| Sooji (Semolina/Rava) | 1/4 cup |
| Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | 2 tbsp |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 tsp |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Oil | For kneading |
For the Stuffing:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 4, boiled and mashed |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 tsp |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely crushed |
| Ginger | 1/2 inch, finely chopped |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Curry Leaves | 5 leaves, finely chopped |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 2 sprigs, finely chopped |
| Red Chilli Powder | 2 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As needed |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, sooji, and turmeric powder.
- Add curd (yogurt) and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add enough water to form a soft, stretchy dough. Knead it well until smooth and elastic.
- Drizzle a bit of oil over the dough and knead it again for smooth binding.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the dough become more pliable.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- Heat oil in a pan on medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and curry leaves to temper them.
- Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and soft.
- Stir in the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for another minute to blend the spices.
- Add the boiled and mashed potatoes to the pan, mixing everything well to form a cohesive filling.
- Finally, add the chopped coriander leaves and mix them into the filling. Remove from heat and let the stuffing cool for a while.
Step 3: Assemble the Obbattu
- Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls (about 6 to 8 balls depending on the size you prefer for each obbattu).
- Similarly, divide the potato filling into small portions.
- Take one dough ball and flatten it slightly with your hands on a lightly floured surface. Dust with a little flour to prevent sticking.
- Roll it into a 3-inch diameter circle using a rolling pin.
- Place a portion of the potato filling in the center of the dough circle.
- Carefully fold the edges of the dough towards the center, enclosing the filling completely. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling.
- Gently flatten the stuffed dough ball with your fingers, then roll it out carefully into a larger circle (5-6 inches in diameter). Be cautious not to apply too much pressure while rolling, as the filling could spill out.
Step 4: Cook the Khara Obbattu
- Heat a cast iron skillet or tawa on medium-high heat. Once hot, place the rolled obbattu onto the skillet.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping it when golden brown and crispy.
- Optionally, smear a little ghee on the cooked obbattu to enhance its flavor and richness.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Khara Obbattu hot with a dollop of ghee smeared on top. It can also be paired with Allam Pachadi (a spicy ginger chutney) or your favorite curry. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a hearty snack.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands or quantities used.)
Conclusion:
Khara Obbattu is a delicious, flavorful bread stuffed with a spicy potato filling that will leave you wanting more. The crispy, thin outer dough combined with the savory and aromatic filling creates a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion or just for a wholesome meal, this Karnataka specialty will surely impress everyone at the table. Enjoy this treat hot with ghee or chutney for the best taste!
