Masala Soya Chaap Recipe: How to Make Restaurant-Style Masala Soya Chaap at Home

Soya chaap is a popular vegetarian dish, especially among those looking for protein-packed, meat-free alternatives. Made from soya protein, this dish is commonly found in Indian restaurants, often served as a starter or snack. If you love the flavor of restaurant-style masala soya chaap, then you can easily recreate this at home with a few simple ingredients. Here’s a detailed recipe for you to make this scrumptious dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chaap:

• 6-8 pieces of soya chaap (available in Indian grocery stores or you can use soya nuggets as an alternative)
• Water for boiling
• 1 tbsp oil for grilling

For the Marinade:

• 1/2 cup thick yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 1-2 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tbsp cornflour (optional, for binding)

For the Masala Gravy:

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp red chili powder
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1/2 cup water (or as needed for consistency)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Soya Chaap

1. If you’re using raw soya chaap sticks, first boil them in water with a pinch of salt for about 10-15 minutes. This softens the soya chaap and makes it more flavorful.
2. Once boiled, drain the chaap and set it aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Soya Chaap

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, lemon juice, kasuri methi, and salt.
2. Add cornflour if you want the marinade to stick better to the chaap.
3. Mix well and coat each soya chaap piece with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or you can leave it overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Soya Chaap

1. Preheat a grill pan or tandoor. If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chaap in the oven or on a regular pan.
2. Lightly brush the marinated soya chaap pieces with some oil to prevent them from sticking.
3. Grill the soya chaap on medium heat, turning occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, until they are golden and slightly charred on the edges. If using a pan, cook on both sides with a little oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Masala Gravy

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until aromatic.
4. Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
5. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour in some water to adjust the gravy’s consistency, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine the Chaap with the Gravy

1. Once the masala gravy is cooked, gently add the grilled soya chaap pieces into the pan.
2. Coat the chaap with the gravy, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
3. If needed, adjust the seasoning and add a little more water for a thinner gravy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
2. You can enjoy masala soya chaap with naan, roti, paratha, or even as a side dish with rice.

Tips for the Perfect Masala Soya Chaap:

• The longer you marinate the soya chaap, the better the flavors will infuse.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red chili powder and green chilies in the gravy.
• For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a small piece of burning charcoal to the gravy and cover it for a few minutes.
• You can also add some cream or butter to the masala gravy for a richer taste.

Conclusion

Making masala soya chaap at home is simple, and it brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant right to your kitchen. Whether it’s for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone with its mouth-watering taste and texture. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed alternative to meat dishes!