Chibwabwa Bhaja (Fried Chibwabwa)

Ingredients

In the original Malawian dish, Chibwabwa is typically prepared by boiling or steaming the vegetable. However, in this Bengali adaptation, we are transforming Chibwabwa into crispy fritters by coating them in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-frying them. This modification adds a new texture and flavor profile to the dish, making it more suitable as a snack or appetizer in Bengali cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Chibwabwa, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) Chibwabwa, thinly sliced 2 cups (250g) Chibwabwa, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (120g) chickpea flour (besan) 1 cup (120g) chickpea flour (besan)
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for deep frying Vegetable oil for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the mixture and whisk until you achieve a smooth batter consistency.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced Chibwabwa to the batter and mix well, ensuring each slice is coated evenly.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Carefully drop the Chibwabwa slices into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Chibwabwa Bhaja hot with tamarind chutney or any other dipping sauce of your choice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chibwabwa — Make sure to thinly slice the Chibwabwa to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture in the fritters.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of garam masala to the batter.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the fritters to achieve a crispy texture.
• Serve the Chibwabwa Bhaja immediately after frying for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces to find your favorite accompaniment.

Serving advice

Serve the Chibwabwa Bhaja as a snack or appetizer. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with tamarind chutney or mint chutney for a burst of tangy flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the crispy Chibwabwa fritters on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of chaat masala for an added burst of flavor. Serve with the dipping sauce in a small bowl on the side.