Bhatura
Bhatura is a classic North Indian leavened fried bread, known for its large, puffy, golden-brown appearance. It's a popular street food, especially in Delhi, and is traditionally served with chole (spiced chickpea curry). The dough requires a significant resting period for fermentation, which contributes to its light and airy texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour (Maida)(Maida is preferred for its soft texture, but regular all-purpose flour can be used.)
- 100 g Plain yogurt(Full-fat yogurt will yield better results. It should be at room temperature.)
- 2 tbsp Fine semolina (Sooji/Rava)(Adds a slight crispness to the bhatura.)
- 1 tsp Baking powder(Helps with the puffiness.)
- 0.5 tsp Salt(Optional, to taste. Enhances flavor.)
- 1 tsp Sugar(Helps with browning and fermentation.)
- approx. 100-120 ml Water(Lukewarm water, as needed, to form the dough.)
- for deep frying Oil(A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, semolina, baking powder, salt (if using), and sugar. Ensure they are well combined.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Add wet ingredients and form dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the yogurt and about half of the lukewarm water. Begin to mix with your fingertips or a spoon, gradually adding more water as needed, until a soft, pliable, and slightly sticky dough forms. It should not be too stiff.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft and slightly oily due to the yogurt.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 4
First fermentation: Lightly grease the mixing bowl with a little oil. Place the kneaded dough in the bowl, turning to coat it lightly with oil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let the dough rest in a warm place for 2 to 3 hours, or until it has at least doubled in size. This fermentation is crucial for achieving a light and puffy bhatura.
⏱️ 2-3 hours - 5
Divide and shape: Once the dough has fermented, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. Cover the balls with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Roll out the bhatura: On a lightly oiled surface or a surface lightly dusted with flour, take one dough ball at a time and roll it out into an oval or round shape, about 6-7 inches in diameter and approximately 1/4 inch thick. Avoid rolling too thin, as this can prevent puffing. Ensure the edges are not too thin.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 7
Heat the oil for frying: Pour enough oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pan or kadai to allow the bhatura to float freely. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to approximately 175°C (350°F). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into it; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 8
Deep fry the bhatura: Carefully slide one rolled-out bhatura into the hot oil. Gently press down on the center with a slotted spoon to encourage it to puff up evenly. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until it is puffed, golden brown, and slightly crisp. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry 1-2 bhaturas at a time.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes per bhatura - 9
Drain and serve: Remove the fried bhatura from the oil using a slotted spoon, allowing excess oil to drip off. Place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining oil. Serve immediately while hot and puffy.
⏱️ 1 minute per bhatura
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The dough should be soft and slightly sticky; avoid adding too much extra flour during kneading.
- ✓Adequate fermentation is key to achieving a light and airy texture. Ensure the dough doubles in size.
- ✓Maintain the oil temperature between 170-180°C (340-350°F) for optimal frying. If the oil is too cool, the bhatura will absorb too much oil; if too hot, it will brown too quickly without puffing.
- ✓Gently pressing the bhatura with a slotted spoon as soon as it hits the oil helps it puff up evenly.
- ✓Serve immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor. Bhatura tends to lose its crispness and puffiness as it cools.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Paneer Bhatura: Add grated paneer to the dough for a richer flavor.
- Aloo Bhatura: Incorporate mashed potatoes into the dough.
- Whole Wheat Bhatura: Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though the texture may be denser.