Amritsari Kulcha Recipe: A Flavorful Taste of Punjab

Amritsari Kulcha is a mouthwatering, crispy, and soft bread that is a specialty of the North Indian city of Amritsar in Punjab. Traditionally baked in a tandoor, this delicious bread is stuffed with a variety of fillings and served with mouthwatering chutneys, curries, or even chickpea curry (Chole). It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is enjoyed by food lovers across the world.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 3/4 cup yogurt (preferably thick)
• 1/4 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for soft dough)

For the Stuffing:

• 1 cup boiled mashed potatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped onions
• 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped green chilies
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves

For Garnishing:

• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnishing)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Mix them well.
2. Add ghee (or oil) to the flour mixture and rub it in using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Add yogurt and begin kneading the dough. Gradually add warm water and milk to form a soft, smooth dough. Knead for about 5-6 minutes.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30-45 minutes. This will make it soft and pliable.

Step 2: Preparing the Stuffing

1. In a pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and add cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add the mashed potatoes, green chilies, garam masala, red chili powder, amchur, and salt. Stir everything together.
4. Once well-mixed, cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Finally, add fresh coriander leaves and mix them in. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Amritsari Kulcha

1. After the dough has rested, divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
2. Roll one dough ball into a small circle (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
3. Place a spoonful of the prepared potato stuffing in the center of the rolled dough. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the stuffing inside.
4. Gently roll the stuffed dough ball into a smooth ball again. Flatten it slightly with your hands.
5. Roll the stuffed dough into a round, flat shape using a rolling pin, being careful not to let the stuffing spill out.

Step 4: Cooking the Kulchas

1. Heat a tawa (griddle) or non-stick pan on medium heat. Once it’s hot, place the rolled kulcha on the pan.
2. Cook on one side until bubbles start to form, then flip it.
3. Apply a little ghee or butter on the cooked side and flip again, pressing gently with a cloth or spatula to ensure it cooks evenly and crisps up.
4. Flip again and repeat with more ghee/butter on both sides.
5. Continue cooking until both sides are golden and crispy.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

1. Remove the kulcha from the pan and brush it with melted ghee.
2. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and garnish with freshly chopped coriander.
3. Serve hot with spicy chickpea curry (Chole), yogurt, or pickle.

Tips:

• If you prefer a more authentic Amritsari Kulcha, you can bake it in a tandoor or use a clay pot, which imparts a smoky flavor.
• You can add finely chopped vegetables like peas or carrots to the potato stuffing for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Ensure that the dough is soft and slightly sticky; this will help achieve the perfect soft texture of the kulcha.
• You can experiment with different fillings like paneer, cauliflower, or even keema (minced meat).

Conclusion:

Amritsari Kulcha is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings the rich flavors of Punjab right to your kitchen. Whether served with Chole, as part of a traditional meal, or enjoyed with a cup of yogurt, this dish will transport you to the streets of Amritsar. Try this recipe at home, and you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of crispy and soft, spicy and savory flavors in every bite!