Whole Wheat Onion Stuffed Kulcha Recipe
Description:
Whole Wheat Onion Stuffed Kulcha, also known as Pyaaz Kulcha, is a popular Punjabi recipe traditionally served with Chole (chickpea curry). The kulcha is filled with a spiced onion mixture, enhanced with mint leaves, which adds a refreshing flavor. This dish is commonly enjoyed as a street food in Delhi and Punjab. While typical kulchas are made using refined flour (maida), this recipe uses whole wheat flour, making it a healthier alternative while still retaining the authentic taste.
This delicious flatbread can be enjoyed with various accompaniments, such as Chole Masala, Boondi Raita, and Pudina Pyaaz Kachumber Salad. The soft, fluffy kulchas with a savory onion filling are sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| For the Dough | For the Stuffing |
|---|---|
| 4 cups Whole Wheat Flour | 1 large Onion (finely chopped) |
| 1 tablespoon Active Dry Yeast | A small bunch of Fresh Coriander (finely chopped) |
| 1 teaspoon Sugar | 5-6 Mint Leaves (finely chopped) |
| 2 Garlic Cloves (finely chopped) | 6 Garlic Cloves (finely chopped) |
| Salt to taste | Salt to taste |
| Warm Water (as needed) | ½ teaspoon Red Chili Powder |
| ½ teaspoon Turmeric Powder |
Preparation Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Instructions:
-
Preparing the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, active dry yeast, sugar, salt, and finely chopped garlic. Mix well to incorporate all the dry ingredients.
- Gradually add warm water, little by little, to form a soft and smooth dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.
- Once kneaded, cover the dough with a damp cloth and set it aside in a warm place for 2-3 hours. This allows the dough to rise and double in size.
-
Making the Stuffing:
- In a food processor, add the chopped onions, mint leaves, fresh coriander, and garlic cloves. Blend until you get a smooth mixture. Add salt, red chili powder, and turmeric powder to the mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will be the stuffing for the kulchas.
-
Shaping the Kulchas:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove any air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions, each about the size of a small lemon.
- Roll each dough ball into a small circle about 2 inches in diameter. Place a tablespoon of the prepared onion stuffing in the center of the dough circle.
- Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the stuffing, sealing it tightly. Gently press the filled dough ball and flatten it into a disc using your fingers or a rolling pin.
- Lightly dust the stuffed dough with flour to prevent it from sticking and roll it into a smooth, round shape about 5-6 inches in diameter.
-
Cooking the Kulchas:
- Heat a tava (griddle) or a flat pan over medium-high heat. Place the rolled kulcha onto the hot tava and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until the underside is golden and slightly puffed.
- Flip the kulcha and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Afterward, place the kulcha directly over a flame on a gas burner (if using a tava), allowing it to puff up completely.
- Press gently with a clean cloth or spatula to ensure that the kulcha cooks evenly on both sides and gets a crisp, golden texture.
-
Serving:
- Once both sides are cooked and crispy, remove the kulcha from the pan and brush it lightly with some butter or ghee (optional) for extra flavor and softness.
- Serve the warm Pyaaz Kulcha immediately with Chole Masala, Boondi Raita, or a side of Pudina Pyaaz Kachumber Salad.
Tips:
- For best results, ensure the water used for the dough is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop the stuffing ingredients by hand.
- You can make the dough and stuffing ahead of time for a quicker cooking experience when ready to serve.
- To make the kulchas extra soft, cover them with a cloth right after cooking and serve while still warm.
This recipe for Whole Wheat Onion Stuffed Kulcha is a healthy twist on a classic favorite, perfect for a hearty dinner with family and friends. Whether served with chickpea curry or as a stand-alone treat, these kulchas will be a delightful addition to your meal!
