Aloo Kulcha is a popular Indian bread, especially famous in Punjab. It’s a type of stuffed naan made with spiced mashed potatoes and baked in a tandoor or oven. This delightful bread is often enjoyed with yogurt, pickles, or curries. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing Aloo Kulcha, including preparation time, cooking time, and a detailed recipe.
Preparation Time:
- 15 minutes (for the dough)
- 30 minutes (for the stuffing)
Cooking Time:
- 5-7 minutes per kulcha (depending on the cooking method and heat)
Ready Time:
- 45 minutes to 1 hour (total, including prep and cooking)
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (curd)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee (clarified butter)
For the Filling:
- 2 large potatoes (boiled and mashed)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 green chilies (finely chopped, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp amchur powder (dried mango powder)
- Salt to taste
For Cooking:
- Flour (for rolling out the dough)
- Butter or ghee (for brushing)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Add yogurt, milk, and oil to the dry ingredients.
- Knead the mixture into a smooth dough, adding a little more milk if necessary.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, red chili powder, garam masala, amchur powder, and salt.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Kulcha:
- Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Take one dough ball, roll it out into a small circle on a floured surface.
- Place a spoonful of the potato filling in the center of the circle.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal it, forming a stuffed ball.
- Gently roll out the stuffed dough ball into a flat, round shape. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid breaking the stuffing.
4. Cook the Kulcha:
- Preheat a tandoor or oven to high heat (around 450°F or 230°C).
- Place the kulcha on a baking sheet or directly on the tandoor wall.
- Bake or cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the kulcha is golden brown and has some charred spots.
- Remove from the oven or tandoor, and brush with melted butter or ghee.
5. Serve:
- Serve the Aloo Kulchas warm with yogurt, pickle, or any curry of your choice.
Enjoy the deliciously spiced and fluffy Aloo Kulchas as a perfect addition to your meal!