Bhatura Recipe Vegan: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious Guide

If you’ve ever craved authentic Indian street food but follow a vegan lifestyle, you’re in for a treat! Bhatura is a fluffy, deep-fried bread that pairs perfectly with spicy chickpea curry or any savory dish.

Traditionally made with yogurt, this recipe reinvents bhatura in a vegan-friendly way without sacrificing any of the signature softness or puffiness. The dough is simple, made with basic pantry staples and a little bit of magic from baking soda and lemon juice to help it rise beautifully.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this vegan bhatura recipe promises delicious results that will impress family and friends alike.

Perfect for weekend brunches, festive dinners, or simply a comforting meal at home, these golden puffs are crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside. Plus, making bhatura from scratch means you can avoid the preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions.

Ready to dive into this delightful Indian classic? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan bhatura recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

No need for dairy or eggs, yet you get the same irresistible texture and flavor. The dough is easy to work with and comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or meal prep.

Additionally, the method ensures a perfect puff every time, giving you that authentic, restaurant-quality bread. And because it’s homemade, you can customize the recipe by adding spices or herbs to suit your taste.

This dish pairs beautifully with curries, chutneys, and pickles for a full Indian feast experience.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/2 cup chickpea flour (besan) – adds flavor and color
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
• 3/4 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
• 2 tbsp oil (neutral oil like vegetable or canola)
• Oil for deep frying

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Heavy-bottomed deep frying pan or wok
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Kitchen towel or paper towels
• Serving plate

Instructions

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, chickpea flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents which are key for puffing.
2. Add wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry mix and add lemon juice and oil. Slowly pour in warm water while mixing with your hand or a spoon until a soft dough forms. You might not need all the water, so add gradually.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
4. Rest the dough: Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for at least 1-2 hours. This resting period is crucial to activate the gluten and leavening.
5. Divide and shape: After resting, punch down the dough gently and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
6. Roll out the bhaturas: On a floured surface, roll each dough ball into a circle about 5-6 inches in diameter. Avoid making it too thin; slightly thicker dough puffs better.
7. Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan to submerge the bhaturas. Heat it over medium-high heat until a small piece of dough dropped in bubbles and rises immediately.
8. Fry the bhaturas: Carefully slide one rolled dough circle into the hot oil. Press gently with a slotted spoon to help it puff up. Fry until golden brown on one side, then flip and cook the other side. This usually takes about 30 seconds per side.
9. Drain and keep warm: Remove the bhatura with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining dough balls.
10. Serve hot: Bhaturas are best enjoyed fresh and hot with your favorite vegan chickpea curry or vegetable curry.

Tips & Variations

“Resting the dough is essential to get soft and puffy bhaturas.”

Here are some helpful tips to perfect your vegan bhatura:

• Use warm water to help activate the baking soda and baking powder effectively.
• If the dough feels sticky, dust it lightly with flour but avoid adding too much as it can make bhaturas tough.
• For extra flavor, add finely chopped green chilies, ajwain (carom seeds), or dried fenugreek leaves to the dough.
• You can substitute chickpea flour with whole wheat flour but the texture will be denser.
• Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; if it’s too cool, bhaturas will absorb oil and become greasy.
• Try baking bhaturas for a healthier version, though the texture won’t be quite the same.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Bhatura is traditionally served with chole (spicy chickpea curry), but the possibilities are endless! Here are some tasty ways to enjoy your bhaturas:

• Pair with vegan chole or other legume curries for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside fresh green chutney or tamarind chutney for dipping.
• Accompany with sautéed or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
• Use bhatura as a wrap for stuffed fillings like spiced potatoes or tofu scramble.
• Enjoy with a side of pickled onions and fresh salad for contrast.

For more delicious vegan meal ideas, you might want to try our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or Collard Green Casserole Recipes that complement bhatura perfectly.

Conclusion

Making vegan bhatura at home is a rewarding experience that brings the warmth and aroma of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple and approachable but also adaptable to your dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

The fluffy, golden breads are perfect for scooping up rich curries or enjoying with your favorite dips, making them ideal for family dinners or special occasions.

By mastering this vegan bhatura recipe, you open the door to exploring many other traditional Indian dishes and flavors. Don’t forget to check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a creamy vegan twist on pasta, and our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for a luscious dessert to finish your meal.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your homemade bhatura!

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