Street-Style Raj Kachori Recipe

Street-style Raj Kachori is a popular Indian chaat that delights the senses with its vibrant colors, varied textures, and rich flavors. This recipe will guide you through making this delicious snack, perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply when you crave some mouth-watering street food at home.

Ingredients:

For the Kachori Shells:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed
• Oil for deep frying

For the Filling:

• 1 cup boiled potatoes, diced
• 1 cup boiled chickpeas
• 1 cup sprouted moong beans
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• Salt to taste

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup thick yogurt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• A pinch of salt

For the Tamarind Chutney:

• 1/2 cup tamarind pulp
• 1/2 cup jaggery or sugar
• 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black salt
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste

For the Mint Chutney:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves
• 2 green chilies
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For Garnishing:

• 1/2 cup sev (crunchy chickpea noodles)
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• Fresh coriander leaves
• Lemon wedges

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Kachori Shells

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, semolina, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, kneading until you form a smooth and firm dough.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a lime.
5. Roll each ball into a thin disc, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
7. Fry the rolled-out discs one at a time until they puff up and turn golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain the fried kachoris on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Fillings

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled potatoes, chickpeas, sprouted moong beans, onions, tomatoes, and coriander leaves.
2. Season with chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Prepare the Yogurt Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk the yogurt with sugar and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Tamarind Chutney

1. In a saucepan, combine tamarind pulp and jaggery or sugar.
2. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Add roasted cumin powder, black salt, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Allow the chutney to cool before using.

Step 5: Prepare the Mint Chutney

1. In a blender, combine mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend until you have a smooth paste. Adjust the consistency with water if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Raj Kachori

1. Take a prepared kachori shell and gently crack the top to create an opening.
2. Fill the kachori with the prepared filling mixture.
3. Drizzle a generous amount of yogurt sauce over the filling.
4. Add spoonfuls of tamarind chutney and mint chutney.
5. Garnish with sev, pomegranate seeds, and fresh coriander leaves.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips and Tricks

• Crispy Shells: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the kachoris to get perfectly crispy shells. If the oil is not hot, the kachoris may absorb excess oil and become soggy.
• Balancing Flavors: Adjust the amount of tamarind chutney and mint chutney according to your taste preference. The tamarind chutney adds sweetness and tanginess, while the mint chutney provides a refreshing kick.
• Variations: You can add other fillings like boiled black chickpeas (kala chana), chopped cucumber, or even boiled and diced sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the kachori shells and store them in an airtight container for up to a week. Just assemble the raj kachori with fresh fillings and chutneys when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Raj Kachori is best enjoyed fresh to retain the crunchiness of the kachori shell and the freshness of the fillings. It makes for an excellent appetizer or a delightful snack for any occasion. Pair it with a refreshing drink like masala chai or a chilled glass of lassi to complete your street food experience.

This street-style Raj Kachori recipe brings the flavors and excitement of Indian street food right into your home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this chaat is sure to impress with its vibrant presentation and irresistible taste.

Enjoy your homemade Raj Kachori and savor the delightful medley of flavors and textures!