Mix Chaat

Chaat is a quintessential street food here in Pakistan, available in many different varieties from the basic mix chaat, dahi bara, sev puri with the introduction of new varieties like the Samosa chaat. Personally I am not a fan of eating chaat from outside because the vendors mix everything up and it all becomes spicy and soggy; the only chaat that I like so far is the Meethi chaat from Gazebo which has just the right blend of ingredients and spices. 

That's why I love making chaat at home; I can add whatever I like in the quantity that I prefer so it all turns out delicious in the end. Also, while making chaat at home might look very difficult, it's pretty simple and it's a great appetizer a one dish dinner or for a light lunch and everyone can make just their own plates. 

For Dahi Phulki

This time, I just decided to use store-bought dahi phulkiyaan (from Nimco) which I soaked in water for about 1-2 hours till they became soft, then strained them and added them to yoghurt. 

For the yoghurt in about 1.5 cups of yoghurt, I add about 3-4 tbsp of water, 1.5 tsp of salt, 1.5 tsp of red chilli powder, 2 tsp of roasted corriander powder and 1/2 tsp of garlic paste. However, I always taste and add more if required. If the yoghurt is a bit too tart, then I add milk also with the water. In the end, I garnish with just a pinch of roasted corriander powder & frcorriander leaves. 

For Chaana/Chick Peas

Heat about 2 tbsp of oil. Add 1 tsp of cumin seeds and saute for about 30 seconds till they start roasting. Then add about 1.5 - 2 cups of boiled chickpeas and saute. Add 1.5 tsp salt, about 1-2 tsp of chilli powder (depending on taste) and add 2 tbsp of lemon juice. Alternatively, you can also add imli/tamarind paste diluted in a bit of water. Saute for about 5-10 minutes till they become a bit roasted and crunchy.  

For Potatoes

Boil 3 medium sized potatoes in either water or in the microwave. Cut them into little cubes then add 2 tsp of salt, 2 tsp of red chilli powder, 1 tsp of roasted corriander powder, 1 tbsp of green chutney and 1 tbsp of tamarind/imli chutney. Mix it all up together.

Other Condiments 

Onions - Cubed

Tomatoes - Cubed

Papri 

Chaat Masala 

Red Chilli Powder

Corriander Powder

Tamarind/Imli Chutney

Green Chutney 

To Serve

Mix the dahi phulki, the chaana's, the potatoes and the other vegetables (tomatoes and onions) together. Then add chutney's and masala's based on preferences and mix it all up. Eat :).