Chaat is an emotion where the tangy flavors burst in your mouth and lifts up the mood in no time. But do we know when it came into existence and why? Absolutely thankful for it, but we must know the history of our all time favorite chaat items like golgappe, bhel puri, chole bhature and dahi bhalle. It is said that chaat is one of the oldest existing savory snacks that is popularly found across India and is also gaining popularity overseas. Did you know that the existence of our dearly chaat can be traced back to ancient periods from the Sanskrit encyclopedia and other literature far earlier from 500 BC. Some also say that in the late 17th century, spicy and fried snacks were promoted as a countermeasure to the alkaline water of the Yamuna River making it more popular. However, it is considered that most chaats like the tomato chaat, tokri chaat etc, originated in Uttar Pradesh in the 20th century. Let’s dive into these and appreciate what we have-
Golgappe
First on the list is lip smacking Golgappe straight from the street vendor in Delhi. It is called by different names in different states like pani puri in mumbai, puchka in kolkata, etc. yet the chatpata taste is consistent overall. The crisp little puris or spheres of happiness as we like to call them, are stuffed with either sprouted moong or black chana or mashed potatoes and some masala and is then dipped in flavoured water and is meant to be eaten in one big bite.
Next favorite is the bhel puri with loads of tangy chutney, puffed rice, some onion, tomatoes, chaat masala and of course crispy puris too. This is a super easy snack for all the kids-party, where they can also mix all the ingredients by themselves and enjoy. Thumbs up to this simple mouthwatering must-try recipe.
Aloo chaat
Potatoes can make one smile, especially if they are fried to perfection like those in aloo chaat. The classic street style chaat made with chunks of crispy fried potatoes topped with chatpata masalas, coriander and lemon juice tastes amazing. These are similar to the wedges we eat at restaurants, but with a 100% desi chaat vibe.
Ram Ladoo
Lastly we have a popular street food snack from Delhi made with lentil batter - Ram Ladoo. It is usually served hot garnished with radish, green chutney, coriander leaves and a drizzle of chaat masala. So technically these are fritters made with bengal gram and green gram along with some taste agents, but the toppings give it a chaat-feeling.
These are just some of the many alluring chaat items that we reckon you should try at home soon. We also hope you enjoyed your journey on the history of chaat.
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