Chikar Cholay Recipe: Traditional Pakistani Dish

Chikar Cholay is a beloved traditional dish from Pakistan, renowned for its rich, spicy, and hearty flavor. This unique recipe perfectly balances a medley of aromatic spices and tender chickpeas, making it an ideal comfort food. Whether you’re preparing a special family meal or hosting a gathering, Chikar Cholay will delight your taste buds and leave your guests craving for more. Perfect for breakfast with naan or as a main course, this dish encapsulates the essence of Pakistani cuisine.

Ingredients

• Chickpeas (چنے) – 2 cups, soaked overnight
• Onion (پیاز) – 1 large, finely chopped
• Tomatoes (ٹماٹر) – 2 large, finely chopped
• Green Chilies (ہری مرچ) – 4, slit
• Garlic Paste (لہسن کا پیسٹ) – 1 tablespoon
• Ginger Paste (ادرک کا پیسٹ) – 1 tablespoon
• Cumin Seeds (زیرہ) – 1 teaspoon
• Coriander Powder (دھنیا پاؤڈر) – 2 teaspoons
• Red Chili Powder (لال مرچ پاؤڈر) – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric Powder (ہلدی پاؤڈر) – ½ teaspoon
• Garam Masala (گرم مصالحہ) – 1 teaspoon
• Salt (نمک) – to taste
• Oil (تیل) – ¼ cup
• Fresh Coriander Leaves (تازہ دھنیا) – for garnish

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Method of Cooking Step by Step

1. Prepare the Chickpeas (چنے تیار کریں):

   Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them well. (چنے بھگو کر اچھی طرح دھو لیں)

2. Sauté Onions and Spices (پیاز اور مصالحے بھونیں):

   Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. (درمیانی آنچ پر تیل گرم کریں۔ زیرہ ڈالیں اور انہیں پھٹنے دیں۔ کٹی ہوئی پیاز ڈالیں اور سنہری بھوری ہونے تک بھونیں۔)

3. Add Ginger and Garlic (ادرک اور لہسن شامل کریں):

   Stir in ginger and garlic paste, cook for 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears. (ادرک اور لہسن کا پیسٹ ڈال کر 2 منٹ تک پکائیں جب تک کہ کچی بو ختم نہ ہو جائے۔)

4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Chilies (ٹماٹر اور مرچیں ڈالیں):

   Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes soften and oil starts to separate. (کٹے ہوئے ٹماٹر اور ہری مرچیں ڈالیں۔ جب تک ٹماٹر نرم نہ ہو جائیں اور تیل الگ نہ ہونے لگے۔)

5. Spice it Up (مصالحے ڈالیں):

   Add coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes to blend the spices well. (دھنیا پاؤڈر، لال مرچ پاؤڈر، ہلدی پاؤڈر، اور نمک ڈالیں۔ چند منٹ پکائیں تاکہ مصالحے اچھی طرح مکس ہو جائیں۔)

6. Combine Chickpeas (چنے شامل کریں):

   Add the drained chickpeas to the pot. Stir well to coat them with the spice mixture. (چنے شامل کریں۔ اچھی طرح مکس کریں تاکہ وہ مصالحے میں لپٹ جائیں۔)

7. Simmer and Cook (ہلکی آنچ پر پکائیں):

   Add enough water to cover the chickpeas. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes until the chickpeas are tender and the gravy thickens. (چنے ڈھانپنے کے لیے کافی پانی ڈالیں۔ ابال لائیں، پھر آگ کم کر دیں اور 30 منٹ تک پکنے دیں جب تک کہ چنے نرم نہ ہو جائیں اور گریوی گاڑھی ہو جائے۔)

8. Final Touch (آخری مرحلہ):

   Sprinkle garam masala and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. (گرم مصالحہ چھڑکیں اور اچھی طرح مکس کریں۔ تازہ دھنیا سے سجاوٹ کریں۔)

About Chikar Cholay Recipe

Where it’s Cooked

Chikar Cholay is a staple in Pakistani households, especially in the Punjab region. It’s commonly prepared for breakfast, lunch, or even special occasions. The dish is often served with hot naan or paratha, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

The History and Origins of this Recipe

Chikar Cholay, deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of South Asia, especially Pakistan, traces its origins to the Punjab region. The recipe has evolved over generations, blending local spices and techniques. It reflects the rich cultural heritage and the agricultural bounty of the region, where chickpeas are abundantly grown.

Where People Like it Most

While Chikar Cholay is popular across Pakistan, it is particularly cherished in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan. It is also a favorite during family gatherings, festivals, and even street food stalls, where its aromatic flavor attracts many.

The Benefits of Ingredients on Health

Chickpeas are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. They aid in digestion, help manage blood sugar levels, and support heart health. The spices used, such as turmeric and cumin, have anti-inflammatory properties and boost immunity. This combination makes Chikar Cholay not just delicious but also highly nutritious.