Litti Chokha is a traditional dish from the Indian state of Bihar, celebrated for its rustic flavors and wholesome ingredients. This delightful meal consists of round wheat flour balls (litti) stuffed with a spiced mixture of roasted gram flour (sattu), served alongside chokha, a smoky mashed dish made from roasted eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes. The combination offers a unique blend of textures and flavors — the crispy, golden littis contrast beautifully with the creamy, smoky chokha. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a hearty, nutritious meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Litti:
- Whole wheat flour: 2 cups
- Sattu (roasted gram flour): 1 cup
- Ghee or oil: 2 tablespoons (plus extra for brushing)
- Ajwain (carom seeds): 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Water: As needed to knead the dough
- Chopped green chilies: 2 (optional, for heat)
- Chopped coriander leaves: 2 tablespoons (optional, for freshness)
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (optional, for tanginess)
For the Chokha:
- Eggplant (brinjal): 1 large
- Potatoes: 2 medium
- Tomatoes: 2 medium
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves
- Green chilies: 1-2 (adjust to taste)
- Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Mustard oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: To taste
- Chopped coriander leaves: For garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Litti Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, and ajwain. Mix well.
- Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a soft, pliable dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- In another bowl, mix the sattu, chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, lemon juice, and salt. Add a little water if necessary to make the mixture moist but not runny. Set aside.
Step 3: Shape the Litti
- Divide the dough into equal-sized balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Flatten each ball into a small disc. Place a tablespoon of the sattu mixture in the center, then fold the edges over the filling to seal it. Roll gently to form a smooth ball again.
- Repeat the process for all the dough balls.
Step 4: Prepare the Chokha
- Roast the eggplant directly over an open flame or in an oven until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft. Allow it to cool, then peel and mash.
- Boil the potatoes until tender, peel, and mash them.
- Chop the tomatoes finely or roast them briefly for a smoky flavor.
- In a pan, heat mustard oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the mashed eggplant, potatoes, tomatoes, garlic, green chilies, and salt. Mix well and cook for 3-4 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Cook the Litti
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Alternatively, you can cook the littis in a tandoor or on a stovetop using a pan.
- Place the stuffed littis on a baking tray and brush them lightly with ghee or oil.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp. If using a pan, cook on medium heat, turning frequently until evenly browned.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the hot littis with the chokha on the side. Drizzle some mustard oil over the chokha for an extra kick of flavor.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve with pickles or yogurt for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair Litti Chokha with a side of tangy mango pickle or a refreshing cucumber salad.
- A cool glass of buttermilk or lassi complements the meal beautifully.
- For a complete experience, serve with a side of green chutney.
Nutritional Information:
Litti Chokha is not only delicious but also nutritious. The whole wheat flour provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, while sattu is rich in protein and essential minerals. The vegetables in the chokha add vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a wholesome choice. The use of mustard oil adds healthy fats, contributing to heart health.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Protein: The sattu filling ensures a good protein intake.
- Rich in Fiber: Whole wheat flour and vegetables contribute to digestive health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes provides essential nutrients.
- Healthy Fats: Mustard oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.
FAQs:
1. Can I make Litti Chokha ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the littis and chokha in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
2. Is Litti Chokha vegan?
Yes, Litti Chokha is a vegan dish as it primarily consists of plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that ghee is replaced with oil if you want it to be completely vegan.
3. Can I use different fillings for the littis?
Absolutely! While sattu is traditional, you can experiment with other fillings like spiced mashed potatoes, paneer, or mixed vegetables.
4. How can I make the chokha spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder to the chokha mixture.
5. What is the best way to store leftover Litti Chokha?
Store leftover littis in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. The chokha can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion:
Litti Chokha is a delicious and wholesome dish that brings the flavors of Bihar to your kitchen in just 30 minutes. With its crispy littis and smoky chokha, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and yields fantastic results. Enjoy the rich culinary heritage of India with this delightful dish!