Amritsari Chole

Introduction

Amritsari Chole, a spicy and flavorful chickpea curry, is a beloved dish from Punjab, known for its robust flavors and unique blend of spices. Typically paired with kulchas or bhature, this dish is rich, tangy, and deeply satisfying. The secret to authentic Amritsari Chole lies in the use of dried amla (Indian gooseberry) or tea bags while cooking the chickpeas, which gives the curry a distinct dark color and subtle tang.

Sections and Recipe Details

1. Preparing the Chole (Chickpeas)
   Ingredients for Chole:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (chole)
• 2-3 dried amla pieces or 1 tea bag
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for softening)
• Water for soaking and boiling
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

• Soak chickpeas overnight in enough water.
• Drain, rinse, and pressure cook with fresh water, salt, dried amla (or tea bag) for about 4-5 whistles or until soft. Remove amla/tea bag once cooked.

2. Preparing the Gravy
   Ingredients for Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1-2 green chilies, slit
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chole masala (optional)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried mango powder (amchur)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil, add cumin seeds, and sauté onions until golden.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook till raw smell disappears.
• Stir in pureed tomatoes and cook until oil separates.
• Add all dry spices and sauté briefly.
• Add boiled chickpeas, mix well, and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Adjust water for gravy consistency.
• Garnish with coriander leaves.

3. Pro Tips for Perfect Amritsari Chole

• Always soak chickpeas overnight for best texture.
• Dried amla or tea bags impart a characteristic dark color and earthy flavor.
• Simmering well enhances flavor depth.

4. Serving Suggestions

• Best served hot with Amritsari Kulcha, Bhature, or jeera rice.
• Accompany with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and green chilies.

5. Fun Fact
   Amritsari Chole is believed to have evolved in dhabas (roadside eateries) where hearty, flavorful meals were a must for travelers and truckers!