Recipe - Maharashtrian Zunka Bhakri

Deep within the rich culinary tapestry of Maharashtra, Zunka Bhakri occupies a cherished spot. This traditional and flavorful dish is a delightful amalgamation of spicy gram flour (besan), skillfully combined with onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, served alongside rustic and nourishing Bhakri flatbread. A beloved Maharashtrian delight, Zunka Bhakri not only promises a burst of delectable flavors but also offers the convenience of quick and easy preparation, making it an ideal choice for a gratifying meal. Within this article, we present an irresistible recipe for Zunka Bhakri, accompanied by its detailed preparation and cooking time, to ensure you relish this savory delight with your dear ones.

Preparation and Cooking Time:
Approximately 30 minutes

Ingredients

For Zunka:

1 cup gram flour (besan)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
A pinch of haldi powder (optional)
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons oil
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For Bhakri:

2 cups whole wheat flour
Water (as needed)
Salt to taste
Oil (for greasing and frying)

Method

For Zunka:

- In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and set aside.

- Heat oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Let them splutter.

- Add the chopped onions, green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.

- Now, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

- Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the prepared gram flour mixture to the pan, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

- Cook the mixture on low heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until the gram flour is cooked through, and the mixture starts leaving the sides of the pan. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and turn off the heat.

For Bhakri:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, salt, and water. Knead the mixture into a smooth, firm dough.

- Divide the dough into small equal-sized balls and roll them into discs, approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.

- Heat a tava (griddle) over medium heat. Place the rolled Bhakri on the tava and cook on both sides until golden brown, applying a little oil on each side.

Serve:

Serve the hot and savory Zunka with the rustic Bhakri flatbread, and enjoy this delicious Maharashtrian delicacy with some pickles or curd on the side.