When the temperature drops, cravings for warm and spicy foods rise. Indian chaats are an all-time favourite for their balance of sweet, tangy, spicy, and savoury flavours. They are versatile, quick to prepare, and can be adapted to seasonal ingredients. Winter, with its abundance of fresh produce, offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a range of chaats tailored to the season.
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Whether you’re looking for something comforting or indulgent, these winter chaat recipes, like shakarkandhi chaat and aloo tikki chaat, are bound to satisfy. In this article, explore some mouthwatering options that are perfect for the colder months.
Shakarkandhi Chaat
A winter classic, shakarkandhi chaat is a healthy and flavourful snack. Boiled or roasted sweet potatoes are diced and tossed with tangy tamarind chutney, lemon juice, black salt, and chaat masala. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and fresh coriander for a burst of colour and sweetness. This chaat is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you warm and energised during winter.
Aloo Tikki Chaat
Aloo tikki chaat is a comforting and indulgent winter snack. Crispy potato patties (tikkis) are topped with yoghurt, tangy tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, and a sprinkle of chaat masala. Add finely chopped onions, fresh coriander, and sev for extra crunch and flavour. Serve it hot for a delightful snack that pairs perfectly with a cup of steaming chai.
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Corn Chaat
Warm and flavourful corn chaat is perfect for winter evenings. Fresh or boiled corn kernels are sautéed with butter, green chillies, and spices like chaat masala and red chilli powder. Add diced tomatoes, onions, and a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavours. This quick and easy recipe is a favourite among both kids and adults.
Palak Patta Chaat
Palak patta chaat is a unique and crunchy winter treat. Large spinach leaves are coated in spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried until crisp. These crispy leaves are then layered with yoghurt, chutneys, and a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder. The combination of crispy spinach and creamy toppings makes this chaat irresistible and perfect for the season.
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Roasted Beetroot Chaat
For a nutritious and colourful twist, try roasted beetroot chaat. Beetroot slices are roasted until tender and then mixed with diced cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes. Season with lemon juice, black salt, and a dash of chaat masala. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing flavour. This vibrant chaat not only looks appealing but also offers a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
Garadu Chaat
A speciality from Indore, garadu chaat is made from deep-fried yam cubes. The crispy yam is tossed with a mix of chaat masala, red chilli powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Served piping hot, this spicy and tangy chaat is a perfect winter delight. It’s particularly popular in street food markets and pairs excellently with hot tea or coffee.
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Daulat Ki Chaat
Daulat ki chaat is a luxurious winter dessert chaat from North India, especially Delhi. Made from milk froth and flavoured with saffron, cardamom, and sugar, this chaat is topped with dried fruits and silver leaf. It is light, airy, and melts in the mouth, offering a royal end to any winter evening. Despite its name, it is more of a dessert than a savoury snack, making it an exquisite choice for special occasions.