Alu chat

• 
  Aloo Chaat
• 
  Aloo chaat vendor, Connaught Place, New Delhi
• 
  Alu Kabli

Alu Chat

Alu chat is a popular street food snack originating from the Indian subcontinent. It is a spicy and tangy dish made primarily with boiled potatoes, various spices, and chutneys. Alu chat is enjoyed across different regions in India and Pakistan, with each area having its own variation of the dish.

Ingredients

The main ingredient in alu chat is potato, which is boiled and then cubed or mashed. Other common ingredients include:

• Chaat masala: A spice blend that typically includes dried mango powder, cumin, coriander, dried ginger, salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
• Tamarind chutney: A sweet and tangy sauce made from tamarind pulp, sugar, and spices.
• Mint chutney: A fresh and spicy sauce made from mint leaves, coriander, green chilies, and lemon juice.
• Onion: Finely chopped and used as a garnish.
• Tomato: Diced and added for freshness and flavor.
• Coriander leaves: Chopped and used as a garnish.
• Lemon juice: Added for tanginess.
• Green chili: Chopped and added for heat.
• Sev: Crunchy chickpea flour noodles used as a topping.

Preparation

To prepare alu chat, the boiled potatoes are first peeled and cut into cubes. These are then mixed with chaat masala, tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and lemon juice. The mixture is tossed to ensure the potatoes are well-coated with the spices and chutneys. Finally, the dish is garnished with chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander leaves, green chilies, and sev.

Variations

Alu chat can vary significantly depending on the region and personal preferences. Some variations include:

• Adding yogurt for a creamy texture.
• Including pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness.
• Using boondi, small fried chickpea flour balls, as an additional topping.
• Incorporating other vegetables such as cucumber or carrot for added crunch.

Cultural Significance

Alu chat is a staple in Indian street food culture and is often sold by street vendors known as "chaatwalas." It is a popular snack during festivals and is enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish is known for its balance of flavors, combining spicy, sweet, tangy, and savory elements.

Related Pages

• Chaat
• Indian cuisine
• Street food
• Pakistani cuisine