Dahi Bhallay

Dahi Bhallay is a traditional food item of Pakistan and South Asia which is available on the streets; it is made up of crisp fried bread topped with yogurt and spices sauce, chutneys and garnishing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Dahi Bhallay at home:

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Dahi Bhallay at home:

Ingredients:

For the Bhallay:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Melt ¼ cup of ghee or oil in the same pan.
1/2 cup lukewarm water
For the Dahi (Yogurt Sauce):For the Dahi (Yogurt Sauce):
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if you want to add it).
Chopped green Coriander or mint to sprinkle before serving.

For the Chutneys:
Tamarind chutney
Green chutney which is prepared from green coriander leaves, green chili and garlic cabo.
Preparation of Imli chutney by using tamarind dates which enriches the taste of the food.
Instructions:

Make the Bhallay:
In one bowl, you need to mix flour, salt and the baking powder together.
Now put the ghee or oil and the dough will bind together.
Gradually pour the remaining lukewarm water over the mixture and work it with your hands for 5-7 mi nutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Tent and let the dough rise for about 25 to 30 minutes.
Cut the dough into as many parts as is average and bring each of them into a round shape.
To do this, put each ball in front of you and pat it down into a flat round shape, roughly around 3-4 inches in diameter.

Fry the Bhallay:
Prepare a deep frying pan for grilling; heat the oil on a mid-heat setting.
After the oil is hot, fry the bhallay disks until they come to golden brown both from top and underneath usually takes between 2-3 minutes.
Carefully, transfer the bhallay onto paper towels to drain off excess oil and grease particles.
Make the Dahi (Yogurt Sauce):Make the Dahi (Yogurt Sauce):
In another bowl, combine yogurt, water, salt, cumin seeds, coriander seeds and soaking cayenne if used.
This is intended to allow the ingredients to flavors blend well and should be brought to refrigerator for at least half an hour.

Assemble the Dahi Bhallay:
Put a few bhallay on a serving tray or chaat tray.
Top the bhallay with the yogurt sauce preferably spooning it on top.
Finally garnish with tamarid, green and imli chutney on the top.
Garnish the dish with finely chopped coriander or mint leaves.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:
Deep fry the bhallay in order to ensure that they are adequately coated with oil as they must be immerse almost in the fryer.
Do not overcrowd the pan, fry the bhallay in small portions if necessary so as that they do not stick to each other.
Adjust the amount of sauce and toppings as desired.
Others may add toppings such as chopped onions, tomatoes, cooked or chickpeas.
I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Pakistani street foods!

Calories in Dahi Bhallay 

• Dahi Bhallaya originated in the Indian subcontinent, especially in present day Pakistan and northern parts of India.
• The food dates back to the Mughal era, when curd and bread were staples of royal cuisine.
• Over time, street vendors and chaat walas (snack vendors) have adapted this recipe to create simple and delicious meals that can easily be eaten on the go
• Today, Dahi Bhallai is a popular street food in Pakistan, enjoyed by people of all ages and families.

• Probiotics: Yogurt contains probiotics, which support gut health and boost the immune system.
• Calcium: Yogurt is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Protein: Bhallaya (breadcrumbs) provides protein, which helps in building and repairing muscles.
• Fiber: The wheat flour used in bhallai contains fiber, which promotes digestive health.
• Antioxidants: Chutneys and spices used in yogurt bhallai like tamarind and cumin have antioxidant properties, protecting against cell damage.
• Energy boost: Dahi Bhallai combines carbohydrates, protein and fiber to provide satisfying energy.
• Affordable and accessible: Dahi Bhallay is a simple dish, making it a staple for many in Pakistan.

• Dahi bhallais are usually served as a snack or dessert, but are also a popular breakfast in some places.
• The dish is known by different names in different parts of Pakistan, such as “Dahi Bhalla” in Punjab and “Dahi Phulki” in Karachi.
• Dahi bhallais are usually served on chaat plates, which are small shallow plates made of metal or ceramic.