Similar to the humble pakoda from the North, Bachka is a popular deep-fried Bihari snack made with kala chana, besan and a host of spices. Super crispy, flavourful and easy to make, Bachka can be your go-to tea-time snack.
For the batter: 1 cup besan or gram flour 2/3 cup water 2 tsp mustard oil 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste 1 green chilli, finely chopped 2 tbsp fresh coriander, finely chopped 1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala powder 1 tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp red chilli powder Salt For the bachka: 1 cup black chickpea or kala chana 1 small onion
Soak the Kala Chana for 4-5 hours, pressure cook it with a pinch of salt for one or two whistles. Drain it completely and let it cool for 15- 20 minutes.
To prepare the besan batter, add besan and salt in a big bowl followed by little water at a time, while whisking, for a coating consistency.
For tempering, heat mustard oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, ginger garlic paste, green chilli, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, sauté everything for a minute.
Add the tempering to the batter. Mix well and check the seasoning. Now add the cooled Kala Chana to besan batter, along with chopped onions, mix well.
Heat oil in deep frying pan, and slowly add the batter in small quantities to the oil. Fry till golden brown. Drain on tissue paper and serve hot.