Chotpoti Recipe

Authentic Chotpoti Recipe: A Flavorful Bengali Street Food Delight. See our Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Spicy Chickpea Snack

Chotpoti

    Chotpoti

  • Cuisine: Bangladeshi
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Prep Time:
  • Cook Time:
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 240 calories

About this recipe

Chotpoti is a mouthwatering Bangladeshi street food that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This tangy and spicy dish is perfect as a snack or appetizer. Let's get started!

First, you'll need to soak the dried white chickpeas overnight and boil them until they become tender. While they're cooking, go ahead and boil the potatoes as well. Once they're cooked, peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.

Now, let's move on to the flavorful base of the chotpoti. In a pan, heat some oil and sauté finely chopped onions until they turn nice and translucent. Next, add ginger and garlic paste for that aromatic touch. Trust me, the kitchen will smell amazing!

To amp up the flavor, it's time to add roasted cumin and coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Give everything a good stir and let the spices mingle for a minute or so.

Once the chickpeas and potatoes are ready, add them to the pan and mix them with the spice mixture. Allow all the flavors to blend together beautifully. At this point, it's a good idea to add a bit of water to create a slightly saucy consistency. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to let all those flavors meld together.

Now comes the fun part – assembling and garnishing your chotpoti! Take a serving bowl or plate, and spoon a generous portion of the cooked chickpeas and potatoes into it. Drizzle tamarind chutney and green chutney on top according to your taste. Feel free to adjust the spiciness and tanginess to your liking.

To add some crunch, sprinkle crispy chickpea flour noodles, known as sev, over the chotpoti. Don't forget to garnish it with chopped onions, cucumber, tomatoes, and thinly sliced green chilies. Fresh coriander leaves and mint leaves will add a burst of freshness. Oh, and a squeeze of lemon juice will elevate the tangy flavors even more!

Recipe origin and background

Chotpoti is a popular street food in Bangladesh, and it is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the region. It is believed to have originated in Bangladesh and is commonly enjoyed by people of all ages.

The word "chotpoti" itself is derived from the Bengali language, where "chot" means tangy or spicy, and "poti" refers to a mixture or medley of ingredients. This perfectly describes the essence of the dish, as chotpoti is a flavorful combination of boiled chickpeas, potatoes, and a variety of spices, chutneys, and garnishes.

Chotpoti is commonly found in the bustling streets and markets of Bangladesh, where street vendors skillfully prepare and serve it to eager customers. It has become an integral part of the street food culture in the country, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

The recipe for chotpoti has been passed down through generations, with each family and street vendor adding their unique touch to the dish. While the basic components remain the same, variations may exist in the choice of spices, garnishes, and chutneys used.

Over time, chotpoti has gained popularity beyond Bangladesh and can now be found in various parts of the world, wherever Bangladeshi cuisine is appreciated. Its unique combination of flavors and textures has made it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Chotpoti reflects the vibrant and diverse culinary heritage of Bangladesh, showcasing the country's love for bold spices, tangy flavors, and street food culture. It continues to be a beloved dish, representing the rich culinary traditions and the joy of indulging in delicious street food experiences.

Why try this Chotpoti recipe?

  1. Authentic Flavor: Our recipe will help you recreate the authentic taste of Chotpoti, a beloved Bengali street food. Experience the rich and flavorful blend of spices that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Bangladesh.
  2. Homemade Delight: Making Chotpoti at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality. Enjoy the satisfaction of preparing a delicious snack from scratch and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
  3. Versatile and Customizable: Chotpoti offers versatility, allowing you to customize the spice levels and toppings according to your taste preferences. Make it as mild or as spicy as you like and experiment with various garnishes to create your own unique twist.
  4. Exotic Street Food Experience: Indulge in the excitement of trying a popular street food right in your own kitchen. With Chotpoti, you can enjoy the flavors of an exotic and authentic dish without leaving your home.
  5. Cultural Exploration: Trying new recipes is a fantastic way to explore different cultures and broaden your culinary horizons. Chotpoti represents the rich food heritage of Bangladesh, and by trying this recipe, you can immerse yourself in its flavors and traditions.

So, don't miss out on the opportunity to savor this mouthwatering snack. Give our Chotpoti recipe a go and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more!

What does Chotpoti taste like?

The taste of chotpoti can be described as a delightful blend of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. It offers a complex taste profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.

The boiled chickpeas and potatoes provide a hearty and slightly nutty base. They have a soft texture that contrasts well with the other elements of the dish. The spices, such as roasted cumin and coriander powder, lend a warm and earthy flavor to the chotpoti.

The tanginess of tamarind chutney and the zing of green chutney add a bright and lively dimension to the dish. The tangy and slightly sour notes create a pleasant contrast with the other flavors, awakening the taste buds.

The various toppings and garnishes contribute to the overall taste experience of chotpoti. The chopped onions, cucumber, tomatoes, and green chilies offer a fresh and crisp texture while adding a touch of sweetness and spiciness. They provide a burst of flavors that complement the tangy and savory elements of the dish.

Additionally, the crispy chickpea flour noodles, known as sev, add a satisfying crunch and a unique texture. They bring an element of fun and playfulness to each bite.

The combination of all these flavors creates a harmonious balance in chotpoti. It is tangy, spicy, and savory all at once, with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch. The dish is known for its vibrant and bold taste, making it a favorite among those who enjoy the flavors of Bangladeshi cuisine and street food.

What is in Chotpoti?

  • Dried White Chickpeas: These are the primary ingredient in chotpoti. They are dried chickpeas that need to be soaked overnight and then boiled until tender. Chickpeas are a good source of protein and add a hearty and nutty flavor to the dish.
  • Potatoes: Boiled and cubed potatoes are another key ingredient in chotpoti. They provide a soft and starchy element to the dish, adding texture and substance.
  • Onion: Finely chopped onion is sautéed to create the flavorful base of the chotpoti. Onion adds a sweet and aromatic taste to the dish.
  • Green Chilies: These are finely chopped and added to the chotpoti to provide a spicy kick. The heat from green chilies adds a vibrant and zesty flavor.
  • Ginger Paste and Garlic Paste: These pastes are added to the sautéed onions to enhance the flavors of the dish. They bring a distinctive aroma and a mild spiciness.
  • Roasted Cumin Powder: This spice adds a warm and earthy flavor to the chotpoti. Roasted cumin powder is commonly used in many Indian and Bangladeshi dishes.
  • Roasted Coriander Powder: Similar to cumin powder, roasted coriander powder adds a mild and slightly citrusy taste to the dish. It complements the other spices and flavors in chotpoti.
  • Red Chili Powder: This spice adds a level of heat and spiciness to the dish. The amount can be adjusted according to personal preference.
  • Turmeric Powder: Turmeric powder brings a vibrant yellow color to the chotpoti. It also adds a subtle earthy flavor.
  • Chaat Masala: This is a special spice blend commonly used in chaat dishes, including chotpoti. It has a tangy and slightly salty flavor that adds a distinct taste to the dish.
  • Tamarind Chutney: Tamarind chutney is a tangy and slightly sweet sauce made from tamarind pulp. It is drizzled over the chotpoti to add a burst of tanginess.
  • Green Chutney: Green chutney is a flavorful sauce made with fresh coriander, mint, green chilies, and other ingredients. It adds a refreshing and zesty taste to the chotpoti.
  • Sev: Sev is crispy chickpea flour noodles that are used as a topping for chotpoti. They provide a crunchy texture and enhance the overall taste experience.
  • Garnishes: Chopped onion, cucumber, tomatoes, and green chilies are commonly used as garnishes. They add freshness, crunch, and additional flavors to the dish.

Equipment required for this recipe

  • Pan: A sturdy pan is needed for sautéing the onions and cooking the chickpeas and potatoes. A non-stick or stainless steel pan works well for this purpose.
  • Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping the onions, green chilies, and other garnishes. It helps in achieving clean and precise cuts.
  • Mixing Spoon or Spatula: A mixing spoon or spatula is useful for stirring the ingredients while sautéing and mixing the spices with the chickpeas and potatoes.
  • Serving Bowl or Plate: You'll need a bowl or a plate to serve the chotpoti. It should be large enough to hold a portion of the dish and accommodate the toppings and garnishes.
  • Cutting Board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Cooking Utensils: Depending on the type of pan or pot you're using, you may need cooking utensils like tongs or a ladle for handling the ingredients while cooking.

How to make Chotpoti

Discover the authentic flavors of Chotpoti, a popular Bengali street food. Our easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to make this delicious and spicy chickpea snack at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried white chickpeas (soaked overnight and boiled until tender)
  • 2 medium-sized potatoes (boiled, peeled, and cubed)
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 green chilies (finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon roasted coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chaat masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Tamarind chutney (store-bought or homemade)
  • Green chutney (store-bought or homemade)
  • Sev (crispy chickpea flour noodles)
  • Chopped coriander leaves
  • Chopped mint leaves
  • Lemon wedges

For the garnish (choose any or all):

  • Chopped onion
  • Chopped cucumber
  • Chopped tomatoes
  • Thinly sliced green chilies

Instructions

  1. In a pan, heat some oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it turns translucent.
  2. Add the ginger paste and garlic paste to the pan and sauté for another minute until the raw smell goes away.
  3. Now, add the roasted cumin powder, roasted coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute.
  4. Add the boiled chickpeas and cubed potatoes to the pan. Mix everything together and cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
  5. Add a little water to the mixture, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
  6. Once the chotpoti is cooked and the flavors have developed, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
  7. To serve, take a portion of the chotpoti in a bowl or a plate. Drizzle some tamarind chutney and green chutney over it according to your taste.
  8. Sprinkle some chopped onion, cucumber, tomatoes, and green chilies on top.
  9. Garnish with sev, chopped coriander leaves, and mint leaves.
  10. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chotpoti for an extra tangy kick.

How to serve Chotpoti

Serving chotpoti is an important part of the experience, as it allows you to create a visually appealing and flavorful dish. Here's how you can serve chotpoti:

  1. Prepare the Chotpoti: Start by cooking the chotpoti according to the recipe instructions. Ensure that the chickpeas and potatoes are tender, and the flavors have melded together.
  2. Choose the Serving Dish: Select a bowl or a plate to serve the chotpoti. The size of the dish will depend on the portion you want to serve.
  3. Portion the Chotpoti: Spoon a generous portion of the cooked chickpeas and potatoes into the serving dish. Make sure to include a good amount of the flavorful sauce in each serving.
  4. Drizzle Tamarind Chutney: Drizzle some tamarind chutney over the chotpoti. This adds a tangy and sweet element to the dish. You can adjust the amount of chutney based on your taste preferences.
  5. Add Green Chutney: Next, add some green chutney to the chotpoti. This brings a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish. Again, adjust the amount to your liking.
  6. Sprinkle Garnishes: Sprinkle the desired garnishes over the chotpoti. Common garnishes include chopped onions, cucumber, tomatoes, and thinly sliced green chilies. These add crunch, freshness, and additional flavors.
  7. Add Sev: Top the chotpoti with a generous amount of crispy chickpea flour noodles, known as sev. These provide a delightful crunch and texture to the dish.
  8. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Finally, garnish the chotpoti with a sprinkle of chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves. These herbs add a burst of freshness and aroma to the dish.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Your chotpoti is now ready to be served! Present it to your guests or enjoy it yourself. Consider providing lemon wedges on the side for those who prefer an extra tangy kick. Chotpoti is best enjoyed when it's still warm, so serve it promptly.

Rated: 4.8 of 5.0 from 883 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Chotpoti, Chotpoti Recipe, Recipe, Top rated

What to serve Chotpoti with

  1. Puri: Chotpoti and puri (deep-fried Indian bread) make a classic combination. The soft and fluffy puris can be torn and used to scoop up the chotpoti, enhancing the overall experience.
  2. Luchi: Similar to puri, luchi is another type of deep-fried bread popular in Bengali cuisine. It has a slightly different texture and flavor, and it pairs well with chotpoti.
  3. Paratha: Parathas are flaky, layered, and pan-fried bread that can be served alongside chotpoti. The combination of the spicy chotpoti and the slightly buttery paratha creates a delicious contrast.
  4. Bhaja Masala: Bhaja masala is a spice mix made with roasted and ground spices like cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. It adds an extra layer of flavor to the chotpoti and can be sprinkled on top or served on the side.
  5. Salad: A fresh salad with cucumber, tomato, and onion can complement the flavors of chotpoti. The cool and crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the tangy and spicy chotpoti.
  6. Yogurt: A side of plain yogurt or raita can help balance the spiciness of the chotpoti. The creamy and cooling yogurt can be served alongside to provide a refreshing element.
  7. Masala Chai: If you're enjoying chotpoti as an evening snack, a cup of hot masala chai (spiced tea) can be a perfect accompaniment. The warm and aromatic tea balances the flavors and enhances the overall experience.

My recommendations and tips

  1. Soak and Cook Chickpeas: Be sure to soak the dried chickpeas overnight before cooking. This helps in softening them and reducing the cooking time. Once soaked, cook the chickpeas until they are tender but not mushy.
  2. Adjust Spices to Taste: The spice levels in chotpoti can be adjusted according to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red chili powder or green chilies. Conversely, if you like it spicier, you can add more. Taste and adjust the spices to suit your palate.
  3. Garnish Generously: Chotpoti is known for its vibrant and colorful presentation. Don't hesitate to garnish it generously with chopped onions, cucumber, tomatoes, green chilies, and fresh herbs. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavors and textures of the dish.
  4. Experiment with Chutneys: Tamarind chutney and green chutney are commonly used in chotpoti. Feel free to experiment with the proportions and flavors of these chutneys to find your preferred balance of tanginess and spiciness. You can adjust the sweetness or sourness by adding more tamarind pulp or lime juice accordingly.
  5. Serve Fresh and Warm: Chotpoti is best enjoyed when served fresh and warm. Make sure to serve it soon after preparation to maintain the optimal texture and flavors. If you're serving it for a gathering or a party, consider keeping the garnishes and toppings separate until it's time to serve, so they stay fresh and crispy.
  6. Customize the Toppings: While traditional chotpoti toppings include sev, chopped onions, cucumber, tomatoes, and green chilies, feel free to get creative and add your own twists. You can experiment with other toppings like crushed papadums, roasted peanuts, or even some crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.
  7. Enjoy the Process: Cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment. Embrace the process of making chotpoti, and don't be afraid to adapt the recipe to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with the spices, chutneys, and garnishes to create a chotpoti that suits your palate.

Potential ingredients substitutes

  • Dried White Chickpeas: If you don't have dried chickpeas, you can use canned chickpeas instead. Rinse and drain them before using. However, note that the texture and flavor of canned chickpeas may differ slightly from soaked and boiled dried chickpeas.
  • Potatoes: If you prefer to avoid potatoes or don't have them on hand, you can substitute with boiled and cubed sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes will add a slightly different flavor and sweetness to the dish.
  • Tamarind Chutney: If you don't have tamarind chutney, you can make a quick substitute by combining lemon or lime juice with a bit of honey or brown sugar. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess according to your taste.
  • Green Chutney: Green chutney is typically made with fresh coriander (cilantro), mint, green chilies, and other ingredients. If you don't have these specific ingredients, you can create a simpler version by blending together some fresh herbs, a small amount of ginger, garlic, and a squeeze of lime juice. Adjust the flavors to your liking.
  • Sev: If you don't have access to sev, you can substitute it with crushed papadums or even some crushed tortilla chips for a similar crunchy texture.
  • Garnishes: The garnishes in chotpoti, such as chopped onions, cucumber, tomatoes, and green chilies, can be adjusted based on availability and personal preference. Feel free to omit or substitute any of these ingredients with others you have on hand. For example, you can use bell peppers instead of green chilies or add some shredded lettuce for extra freshness.

Additional note

  1. Customization: Chotpoti is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the level of spiciness, tanginess, and sweetness by altering the quantities of spices and chutneys. Feel free to experiment and find the balance that you enjoy the most.
  2. Serving Temperature: Chotpoti is typically served warm or at room temperature. However, you can also enjoy it chilled during hot weather. Just ensure that the ingredients are well-cooked and any leftovers are stored properly in the refrigerator.
  3. Storage: Chotpoti is best consumed immediately after preparation to enjoy its flavors and textures at their peak. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
  4. Texture: Chotpoti has a combination of soft and crunchy elements. The cooked chickpeas and potatoes provide a soft and creamy texture, while the sev and garnishes add crunch. The balance of textures adds to the overall appeal of the dish.
  5. Hygiene and Food Safety: Ensure that you practice proper hygiene while preparing chotpoti. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling ingredients, and make sure all utensils and surfaces are clean. Also, be mindful of food safety guidelines, such as storing perishable ingredients properly and avoiding cross-contamination.
  6. Regional Variations: Chotpoti can have slight variations in its preparation and flavors based on regional preferences and personal recipes. While the basics remain consistent, different households or regions may add their own unique twists or variations to the dish. Exploring different recipes and variations can be an exciting culinary adventure.

Final Remark

Unlock the delightful flavors of Chotpoti with our step-by-step recipe. Enjoy the perfect blend of spices and textures in this authentic Bengali street food. Try it today and elevate your culinary experience!

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