Ragda Chaat is a delectable street food delight widely enjoyed across India, especially in the bustling lanes of Chennai beaches. This savoury snack features soft, spicy white peas curry paired with a variety of toppings and chutneys. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Ragda Chaat at home, complete with photos to assist you through the process.
Firstly, gather the essential ingredients for preparing the white peas curry or ‘ragda’. You will need:
- 1 cup of white peas (soaked overnight)
- 1 medium-sized potato, peeled
- ¼ tsp of turmeric powder
- ½ tsp of salt
- 3 cups of water
Begin by adding the soaked white peas, potato, turmeric, salt, and water into a pressure cooker. Close the lid securely and cook until the peas are soft and the potato is fully cooked. Depending on your pressure cooker, this may take around 4-6 whistles on medium flame.
While the peas cook, let’s reflect on the nutritional aspect of this dish. Peas are not just a versatile ingredient; they’re also a healthy one. A study suggests that consuming 200 grams of chickpeas can reduce post-meal blood sugar levels significantly, showing the power of pulses in a balanced diet.
Once the peas are cooked, release the pressure and open the cooker. Check if the peas and potato are soft and mushy. If so, mash the potato and mix it with the peas to get a thick, stew-like consistency. This ‘ragda’ is the base of your chaat.
For serving, shallow-fry boiled and mashed potato patties until golden and crisp. Place these ‘patties’ on a serving plate and pour the hot ragda over them. Garnish with finely chopped onions, green chutneys, tamarind chutney, sev, and fresh coriander leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors typical of a roadside chaat experience.
Making Ragda Chaat at home brings a piece of India’s street culture to your table, offering a culinary adventure that’s not just delicious but also packs a nutritional punch.
When choosing ingredients for your Ragda Chaat, selecting high-quality dried peas is essential. For those looking to purchase white peas, consider the wide selection available online.
In addition to peas, a good chaat necessitates a blend of spices and garnishes. Whether it’s fresh green coriander, tangy tamarind, or spicy green chilies, each element adds to the final flavor profile of your chaat. Remember, the key to an authentic taste is in the freshness and quality of these ingredients.
Enjoy your homemade Ragda Chaat with a cup of hot chai for an authentic experience. Whether it’s a special occasion or a craving for street food, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
