Lifestyle

Kolkata Street-Style Zero-Oil Ghugni : A Healthy, Flavorful Delight You Can’t Resist!

This ghugni recipe is light, healthy, and bursting with flavors. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? Keep reading to discover how to make it!  
India’s diversity is reflected in its culture, cuisine, and cooking styles. Every region and subregion offers something unique, enriching the global culinary map. Among the many delights, street food stands out for its distinct flavors and character. While some street dishes are rich in oil and spices, others are simple yet satisfying. Today, we’re exploring one such dish—spicy, flavorful, and healthy all at once. It’s the iconic street-style ghugni. Intrigued? Let’s dive in!  

What is Ghugni? What Makes This Recipe Special?  

Ghugni is a beloved dish from West Bengal and Bihar, made with white peas (safed matar). It’s simple, packed with spices, and incredibly filling. You can enjoy it as a breakfast dish with roti, puri, or bread, or as a chaat topped with extra lemon juice and sev for a tangy crunch.  

Traditionally, ghugni is prepared by sautéing boiled white peas with oil, ginger, garlic, onions, and spices. However, this particular recipe stands out because it uses no oil at all. Yes, you read that right—zero oil!  

 Zero-Oil Street-Style Ghugni Recipe: How to Make It  

This recipe is incredibly easy and can be ready in just 15 minutes (plus soaking time). Here’s how to make it:  

1. Soak the White Peas : Soak the white peas overnight to soften them.  
2. Boil the Peas : The next day, boil the soaked peas with turmeric powder and a pinch of baking soda. Baking soda helps soften the peas faster, as they tend to be quite firm. Once cooked, mash a few peas to give the dish a semi-thick consistency.  
3. Prepare the Add-Ins : Soak some tamarind in water for a tangy flavor. Finely chop onions, green chilies, cucumber, and coriander leaves. For added texture and taste, you can also include shredded carrots, tomatoes, or chopped coconut.  
4. Mix Everything Together : Combine the boiled peas with the chopped vegetables. Add salt and a blend of roasted cumin, coriander, and red chili powder to taste. Garnish with sev for a crunchy finish.  

 Pro Tip : Enjoy it fresh to savor the crispness of the veggies and the crunch of the sev.  
And that’s it! This zero-oil ghugni is as simple as it gets. So, why wait? Try this recipe at home and treat yourself to a delicious, healthy snack!