With winter, comes the deep urge to eat our favourite comfort food, isn’t it? While there is a list of the best winter food that you can very easily find, no matter where you are in India, one of the best still is chole bhature, standing out as a quintessential comfort dish. In this blog, let us discuss why chole bhature is an excellent choice and various other choices that we have for winter.
Why is Chole Bhature Ideal for Winter?
Chole bhature is a combination of spicy chickpeas, known as chole, and fluffy deep-fried bread, called bhature. Along with its super taste, it also satiates the craving for something warm and fulfilling. The chole spices, including cumin, coriander, and garam masala, are perfect for heating the body and soul during cold weather.
Chole Bhature: Chole bhature is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that resonates with the soul of North India. This dish consists of spicy chickpeas (chole) simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce infused with a special blend of spices including cumin, coriander, garam masala, and amchur (dry mango powder). This hearty component is perfectly balanced by the fluffy bhature, which is made from a dough of refined flour, yoghurt, a hint of sugar, and leavening agents, fried until it puffs into a light, golden cloud.
Accompaniments certainly play a significant role as they elevate the taste and enjoyment of chole bhature. Some of the typical accompaniments include:
- Pickle: A spicy and tangy mixed vegetable or mango pickle, also commonly called achaar in India, complements the richness of the chole.
- Onion rings: Freshly sliced onions sprinkled with a bit of salt and lemon juice add a crisp, refreshing contrast.
- Green chutney: A mint and cilantro chutney with green chillies provides a herbal sharpness that cuts through the deep flavours.
- Raita: A cooling yoghurt-based condiment with cucumber or boondi (fried chickpea flour droplets) can balance the spice levels for a more rounded meal.
Other Beloved Winter Comfort Foods
- Sarson ka Saag with Makki di Roti: A seasonal comfort food in North Indian cuisine, especially Punjabi cuisine, during the colder months, this dish pairs spicy mustard greens (sarson) with cornbread (makki di roti). It provides a rich source of iron and is immensely satisfying on a chilly day, especially if you eat it in the morning hours.
- Rogan Josh: While you look for warm meals for cold days, you can count on Rogan Josh, undoubtedly. This is an aromatic Kashmiri dish that is made with tender lamb cooked in a thick gravy. The spices that one would need for this dish are cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. These spices not only warm the body but also delight the palate with their depth of flavours.
- Khichdi: It is a wholesome mix of rice and lentils cooked together with a hint of spices like asafoetida and turmeric. It offers a complete meal that is easy on the stomach and comforting during cold weather.
If you want to stick to plant-based options, you can also choose dishes like Kadhi Pakora or Baingan Bharta providing a comforting experience. Kadhi Pakora features fried chickpea flour dumplings in a yoghurt-based curry, while Baingan Bharta is a smoky mashed eggplant dish, both rich in flavours and perfect for winter evenings.
The role of spices and ingredients winter dishes often incorporate ingredients that are not just about flavour but also offer warmth. Ingredients like black pepper, cardamom, and ginger are commonly used in Indian winter recipes to add both heat and medicinal benefits, helping in digestion and improving circulation.
Finding the Best Chole Bhature in Delhi
The bustling capital of India, Delhi is known for its street food, and among the plethora of dishes, chole bhature takes a special place. It is not just food; it is a cultural experience. While you will find many Delhites debating over the best spots to indulge in this delightful dish, here we are mentioning the most talked about spot.
Sita Ram Diwan Chand (SRDC): Sita Ram Diwan Chand (SRDC) is a legendary choice when it comes to authentic chole bhature. It is often hailed as the best spot in Delhi. SRDC has been serving this dish for decades and has perfected the recipe. The bhature you will find here are fluffy and light, and the chole are spiced to perfection, making it a must-visit for anyone craving the authentic flavours.
Why SRDC stand out?
SRDC not only offers a taste of traditional chole bhature but also provides a glimpse into the heart of Delhi’s culinary scene. Their consistent quality and the bustling, vibrant atmosphere make it a memorable part of any visit to the city.
Wrapping it up!
As we embrace the colder months, integrating dishes like chole bhature into your diet can make the winter season feel more comforting and enjoyable. Each dish mentioned in this blog serves the purpose of providing warmth and also brings a nostalgic and comforting experience that is perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones.