I have always relished ‘chana chaat’. It is an addictive classic Pakistani dish that tastes both spicy and tangy. In my recipe, I have used white beans with crispy fried spinach. For a tangy flavor, I have prepared the sauce with tamarind, golden yellow raisins, and roasted cumin seeds. It tastes irresistible and is best to savor as a side dish during a meal.

 Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked white beans
• 2 cups crispy fried spinach
• 2 teaspoons ‘chaat masala’
• ½ fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 green chilies, small size, finely chopped
• 6-8 cherry tomatoes, cut into half

For tamarind sauce:

• 1/2 cup tamarind
• 1 cup golden raisins
• 1 tablespoon roasted cumin, crushed
• 1 tablespoon chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
• Salt as needed

Method:

In a food processor, combine tamarind, golden raisins, roasted cumin, chili flakes, grapeseed oil, and salt. Blend to make smooth ‘chaat’ sauce. Set aside for ‘chaat’ dressing.

In a large mixing bowl, add white beans, ‘chaat masala’, one tablespoon tamarind sauce, onion, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, and green chili. Using a wooden spoon, mix gently until all the flavors of the ‘chaat’ come together.

Drizzle the prepared dressing (tamarind sauce) on top of the ‘chaat’. Serve the ‘chaat’ with crispy fried spinach on top.