Chokha is a traditional side dish from the Indian states of Bihar and Jharkhand. It is typically served with litti, a roasted wheat flour snack, as well as other main dishes like rice, roti, or parathas. Chokha is made by roasting and mashing vegetables, giving it a smoky and flavorful taste. The most common version of chokha is made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes.
Ingredients for Eggplant Chokha:
- 1 large eggplant (baingan)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes
- 1 medium-sized onion (optional, some variations include it)
- 2 green chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil (traditional, but you can use any cooking oil)
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Begin by roasting the vegetables. You can do this in three different ways:
- On an open flame: Pierce the eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes with a fork and roast them directly on a gas stove or over a barbecue flame. Turn them occasionally to ensure even roasting until their skin is charred and the flesh becomes soft.
- In an oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and place the pierced vegetables on a baking tray. Roast them for about 30-40 minutes or until they are cooked and the skin becomes charred.
- In a microwave: Microwave the pierced vegetables on high for 8-10 minutes or until they are thoroughly cooked.
- Once the vegetables are roasted and cooked, allow them to cool slightly. Peel off the charred skin from the eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes. Discard the skin and transfer the roasted flesh to a mixing bowl.
- Mash the roasted vegetables using a fork or a masher until they form a coarse texture. Some people prefer a smooth chokha, while others like it slightly chunky.
- Finely chop the green chilies and onion (if using) and add them to the mashed vegetables.
- Crush the garlic cloves and add them to the mixture.
- Season the chokha with salt according to your taste.
- Pour in the mustard oil and mix everything thoroughly. The pungent flavor of mustard oil adds an authentic taste to the chokha.
- Garnish the chokha with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and aroma.
Chokha is now ready to be served! It pairs exceptionally well with litti, but you can also enjoy it with other Indian bread like roti or paratha. The smoky and spicy flavors of chokha make it a delightful side dish that complements various main courses and adds a burst of traditional Bihari and Jharkhandi flavors to your meal.