How to Prepare Litti Chokha at home step by step, a Tasty Bihari Traditional Dish From the Heartland ?
Few foods compare to Litti Chokha’s earthy simplicity and robust flavor when it comes to showcasing the rustic charm of Indian cuisine. This dish, which has its roots in the culinary customs of Bihar and some areas of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, is more than just a recipe; it’s a link to family, culture, and homecoming. With its strong flavors
and abundance of nutrients, Litti Chokha never fails to win people over, whether it is served on a banana leaf in a village or on a plate at an urban food festival.
The History and Customs of Litti Chokha ?
In the Gangetic plains, farmers and travelers have long consumed litti chokha. Round balls called litti are Made from whole wheat dough and filled with sattu (roasted gram flour), they are typically roasted over charcoal or uplas, which are dried cow dung cakes, to give them a genuine smoky flavor.
In contrast, chokha is a mashed concoction of boiled potatoes, tomatoes, and roasted brinjal (baingan), along with mustard oil, green chilies, and garlic. When combined, they create a hearty, filling, and cozy meal that is cherished for its flavor and health advantages.
🌿 Traditional Indian Food’s Health BenefitsLitti Chokha is a nutritious Indian dish that stands out from other fried snacks and fast food:
• Sattu helps to maintain digestive health and is high in fiber and protein. In the summer, it also keeps the body cool.
• The vegetables used in chokha include tomato, brinjal,and potatoes—are inherently rich in vitamins and low in calories. Mustard oil, which serves as a natural preservative and contains omega-3 fatty acids, is used in this recipe.
Because of this combination, Litti Chokha is a nutritiously balanced meal in addition to being a delicious treat. This is a great choice if you’re watching your diet or are searching for classic dishes with a healthy twist.
Aww, The Complete Recipe for Litti Chokha
Don’t worry, it’s easier than you might think how to make Litti Chokha at home the way it’s made in Bihar! This is a detailed recipe for a litti that you can make in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Step-by-Step: Litti Chokha Recipe ?
Here’s an easy step-by-step litti recipe to make at home using Indian pantry staples.
Ingredients:-
For Litti (Wheat Balls):
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ½ tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp ghee
- Water as needed
For Stuffing (Sattu Mix):
- 1 cup sattu (roasted gram flour)
- 1 finely chopped green chilli
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander
- 1 tsp mustard oil
- ½ tsp ajwain
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and water as needed
For Chokha:
- 1 roasted brinjal (baingan), peeled
- 2 boiled potatoes
- 2 roasted tomatoes
- 3–4 cloves of roasted garlic
- 1 chopped green chilli
- 2 tbsp mustard oil
- Salt and chopped coriander
Preparation Steps:-
1. Making Litti:
- Mix flour, ajwain, salt and ghee. Add water little by little and knead into a soft dough. Let rest for 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix sattu, chilli, coriander, ajwain, lemon juice, salt, mustard oil and enough water so it is moist.
- Roll small balls from the dough, flatten them, place stuffing inside, and seal the edges.
- To cook: bake at 200 °C for 30–35 minutes, turning occasionally. You may also roast litti on a gas flame or air fryer for a healthier option.
2. Preparing Chokha:-
- On flame, roast brinjal and tomatoes until charred. Allow to cool and then peel.
- Mash brinjal, tomatoes, potatoes, garlic, and chilli together. Add salt, mustard oil, and coriander. Mix well.!
💡Pro Tip:
To improve flavor, always use fresh mustard oil.
• To make chokha spicier, add a small amount of roasted red chilli.
• For a low-fat substitute, try a baked litti.
• For added zing, serve with green coriander or tamarind chutney.
🪔Serving Recommendations and a Local Touch
hot littis with chokha, raw onions and green chillies on the side, and a ghee drizzle on top. This dish is often served with a glass of chaach (buttermilk) or lassi to complete the meal in many homes.A small portion of baingan bharta or aloo bharta (spicy mashed potato) may also be served alongside in some Bihari homes. The dish, which is frequently prepared outside over open fires, becomes even more hearty in the winter.
📝 Conclusion:-
Every Bite Has the Taste of Home Litti Chokha is one of those dishes that ties you to your roots, whether you’re from Bihar or are trying it for the first time. It’s straightforward, heartfelt, and incredibly filling. It is more than just a recipe; it is a timeless tale of custom, tenacity, and Flavour.