Litti Chokha

Litti is a popular traditional dish from the Indian state of Bihar. It consists of stuffed wheat dough balls that are roasted and served with a spicy accompaniment called chokha. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make litti:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• Water (as needed)

For the filling:

• 1 cup sattu (roasted gram flour)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
• 1 teaspoon kalonji (nigella seeds)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Lemon juice (optional)

For the chokha:

• 3-4 boiled potatoes, mashed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon mustard oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and ghee or oil. Gradually add water and knead to form a soft dough. Cover it and set it aside for about 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together sattu, chopped onions, green chilies, ginger, coriander leaves, carom seeds, kalonji, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and lemon juice (if using). Mix well to form a crumbly filling. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
3. Divide the dough into small lemon-sized balls. Take each ball and flatten it with your palm. Place a spoonful of the sattu filling in the center.
4. Bring the edges of the flattened dough together, sealing the filling inside. Gently shape it into a ball again, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed and fully enclosed.
5. Preheat your oven or grill to medium heat. Alternatively, you can also cook the litti on a traditional charcoal or wood-fired stove.
6. Place the stuffed litti on the heated oven or grill. Cook them, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. It usually takes around 20-25 minutes.
7. While the litti is cooking, prepare the chokha. In a bowl, mix together mashed potatoes, chopped onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, mustard oil, and salt. Mash and mix well until everything is combined.
8. Once the litti is cooked, remove them from the oven or grill. Serve them hot with the chokha on the side.

Litti is traditionally enjoyed by dipping it in ghee or yogurt before eating. It is a delicious and filling dish that is often served as a main course or as a snack.