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Homemade Bhatura

Bhatura is a North Indian fried bread, soft inside and crisp outside, usually served with chickpea curry (chole). Fluffy and golden, it’s a true classic.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Resting Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Bhatura
Servings: 8
Calories: 164kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoon semolina sooji
  • 2 tablespoon plain yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 tablespoon oil
  • ½ cup warm water more as needed
  • Oil for deep frying
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, mix flour, semolina, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
  • Add yogurt and oil. Mix well.
  • Gradually add warm water and knead into a soft, slightly sticky dough.
  • Cover with a damp cloth and rest for 2 hours.
  • Divide dough into 8 equal balls.
  • Roll each ball into a circle about 6–7 inches (15–18 cm) wide.
  • Heat oil in a deep pan until hot (about 350°F / 175°C).
  • Fry bhature one at a time, pressing lightly with a slotted spoon to help them puff.
  • Flip and fry until golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • Serve hot with chole and accompaniments.

Notes

Ingredient swaps:
  • Use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour for a slightly healthier version.
  • Replace yogurt with buttermilk or curd if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Add a teaspoon of semolina for extra crispness.
Technique tips:
  • Resting the dough is key, it helps the bhatura puff up beautifully.
  • Don’t roll the dough too thin; medium thickness gives the best fluffy texture.
  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, test with a small piece of dough that should rise instantly.
Make-ahead and storage:
  • Bhatura dough can rest in the fridge for up to 24 hours; bring it to room temperature before rolling.
  • Cooked bhaturas are best eaten fresh but can be reheated briefly on a tawa.
  • Avoid stacking hot bhaturas; the steam makes them soggy.
Serving ideas:
  • Serve with spicy chole (chickpea curry) for the classic combo.
  • Pair with raita, pickled onions, or a squeeze of lemon for balance.
  • Enjoy with mango lassi for a festive meal.
Twist ideas:
  • Add crushed ajwain or kasuri methi to the dough for extra flavor.
  • Try baking the bhatura at high heat with a light oil brush for a no-fry version.
  • Stuff the dough with mashed paneer or spiced potatoes for a hearty variation.

Nutrition

Calories: 164kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 85mg | Potassium: 53mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Vitamin C: 0.04mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 2mg