Lobia Chaat Special Recipe – A Tangy & Healthy Delight

 

Lobia Chaat Special – A Tangy & Healthy Delight

Lobia Chaat, also known as black-eyed pea salad, is a delicious, protein-packed dish that is both nutritious and flavorful. This chaat is a perfect combination of tanginess, spice, and crunch, making it an excellent snack or side dish for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving something healthy, or looking for a quick lunch, this recipe will be your go-to option.

Ingredients

To prepare a special Lobia Chaat, you will need the following ingredients:

For Boiling Lobia:

• 1 cup lobia (black-eyed peas)
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

For the Chaat Mixture:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 small boiled potato, cubed
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup boiled corn (optional, for extra crunch and sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black salt (kala namak)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon tamarind chutney
• 1 tablespoon yogurt (optional for a creamy twist)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped raw mango (optional for extra tanginess)
• Sev or crushed papdi for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Soaking and Boiling Lobia

1.     Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly and soak them in water for at least 4-5 hours or overnight.

2.     Drain the soaked lobia and transfer it to a pressure cooker or pot.

3.     Add 3 cups of water, salt, and turmeric powder.

4.     Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles or boil in a pot until the lobia becomes soft yet firm (not mushy).

5.     Once done, drain excess water and let the lobia cool down to room temperature.

Step 2: Preparing the Chaat Base

1.     Take a large mixing bowl and add the boiled lobia.

2.     Add the finely chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and boiled potato.

3.     Mix in the green chili, boiled corn, coriander leaves, and mint leaves.

Step 3: Adding Spices and Flavors

1.     Sprinkle roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, red chili powder (if using), and black salt.

2.     Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and add the tamarind chutney.

3.     Mix everything well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Garnishing and Serving

1.     If using yogurt, add a spoonful on top and gently mix for a creamy texture.

2.     Garnish with sev or crushed papdi for extra crunch.

3.     Sprinkle finely chopped raw mango pieces for a tangy surprise.

4.     Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Variations of Lobia Chaat

1.     Spicy Version – Add finely chopped green chilies and an extra dash of red chili powder for a fiery taste.

2.     Sweet and Tangy – Increase the amount of tamarind chutney and add pomegranate seeds for a sweeter taste.

3.     Healthy Twist – Replace boiled potato with sweet potato for a healthier version.

4.     Street-Style Chaat – Top with whisked yogurt, more chutneys, and a sprinkle of finely chopped onions for that perfect street-food touch.

5.     Protein-Packed – Add sprouted moong dal or cooked chickpeas to increase the protein content.

Health Benefits of Lobia Chaat

• Rich in Protein: Lobia is an excellent plant-based protein source, making it a great choice for vegetarians.
• High in Fiber: It helps in digestion, keeps you full longer, and aids weight management.
• Packed with Vitamins & Minerals: The addition of vegetables provides essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
• Low in Calories: Without heavy oils or fried elements, this chaat remains light and healthy.

Tips for the Best Lobia Chaat

• Ensure that lobia is cooked properly – soft but not mushy.
• Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
• Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Serve immediately after mixing to retain the crunch and freshness.
• You can refrigerate boiled lobia for 2-3 days and prepare the chaat whenever needed.