Delicious Chickpea Flour Soup: A Taste of Tradition

Dishes made with gram flour (chickpea flour) are not only tasty but also versatile. While most people think of snacks like pakodis and bajjis when it comes to chickpea flour, it can also be transformed into a delightful soup. Adding your choice of vegetables makes for a hearty and flavorful meal that pairs wonderfully with chapati or rice.

One lesser-known but delightful recipe is Shanaga Flour Soup, which has unfortunately fallen out of favor in recent times. This quick-to-make soup is perfect for the cooler months and is particularly popular during the month of Kartika. It not only tastes great but is also nutritious, making it an excellent option for families, especially for young children.

Ingredients for Chickpea Flour Soup (Shanaga Flour Charu)

• Chickpea Flour: 1 cup
• Curd: 1/2 cup
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Green Chillies: 2-3, slit
• Curry Leaves: A few
• Coriander: A handful, chopped
• Spices: As per taste
• Turmeric Powder: 1/2 tsp
• Chilli Powder: 1 tsp
• Salt: To taste
• Tomato: 1 medium, chopped
• Eggplant (Brinjal): 1 small, chopped
• Beans: A handful, chopped
• Okra (Ladyfinger): 100g, chopped
• Ghee: 1 tsp
• Lemon Juice: To taste
• Oil: 1 tbsp
• Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 tsp

Method of Making Chickpea Flour Soup

1. Prepare the Chickpea Flour Mixture: In a bowl, combine chickpea flour and a little curd. Gradually add water to avoid lumps, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Spices: In a pan, heat oil and add curry leaves and dry chillies. Sauté them for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Onions and Green Chillies: Add chopped onions and green chillies to the pan. Fry until the onions turn translucent.
4. Add Ginger Garlic Paste: Stir in the ginger garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell dissipates.
5. Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the chopped eggplant, tomato, and okra to the pan. Cook them well, mixing in turmeric, chilli powder, and salt to taste.
6. Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover the vegetables, and let them cook until tender.
7. Mix in the Chickpea Flour: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the earlier prepared chickpea flour mixture. Cook for another five minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Finishing Touches: Add chopped coriander and garam masala, then mix well. Turn off the heat when it comes to a gentle boil. For a tangy flavor, squeeze some lemon juice into the soup before serving.

Conclusion

This delicious Chickpea Flour Soup (Shanaga Flour Charu) is not only a comfort food but also a nutritious addition to your meal. Its unique flavors and wholesome ingredients make it an ideal dish for family gatherings, especially during the festive season. Enjoy it hot with rice or chapati for a satisfying meal!