Chapra Chokha Delicacy
Chapra Chokha is a smoky, flavorful mashed vegetable dish from the Bhojpur region of Bihar, India. It's made with roasted eggplant, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, green chilies, ginger, and garlic, mashed together and seasoned with a blend of spices. The dish gets its unique smoky flavor from the charcoal-fired oven in which the eggplant and potatoes are roasted. Chapra Chokha is typically served with hot puris or parathas, and makes for a hearty and delicious meal.
Chapra Chokha has a long and storied history, dating back to the 18th century. The dish is said to have originated in the town of Chapra, in the Bhojpur region of Bihar. According to legend, a local farmer named Chokha was working in his fields one day when he came across a group of travelers who were hungry and tired. Chokha invited the travelers to his home, and his wife made them a meal of roasted eggplant, potatoes, and other vegetables. The travelers were so impressed with the dish that they asked Chokha for the recipe. Chokha was happy to oblige, and the travelers went on their way, spreading the word about Chapra Chokha. Over time, the dish became popular throughout the Bhojpur region, and eventually became a staple of Bihari cuisine.
Chapra Chokha Delicacy Chapra Chokha Delicacy Chapra Chokha Delicacy Chapra Chokha Delicacy
Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 45 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • Brinjal
  • Potato
  • Onion
  • Tomato
  • Green chili
  • Ginger
  • Garlic
  • Tamarind paste
Instructions
  1. Roast eggplant and potatoes in a charcoal-fired oven until charred.
  2. Mash the roasted eggplant, potato, onion, tomato, green chili, ginger, and garlic together.
  3. Season with salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder.
  4. Add tamarind paste and mix well.
  5. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
  6. Serve with hot puris or parathas.
Why It Works
  • The combination of roasted eggplant and potatoes gives Chapra Chokha a rich, smoky flavor.
  • The addition of spices like red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder adds depth and complexity to the dish.
  • The tamarind paste adds a sour note that balances out the richness of the other ingredients.