Looking for a filling and flavorful meal? 1/3 pack (100 g) Amritsari Cholle might just be what you're looking for! These spicy chickpeas are a staple in Punjabi cuisine and are perfect for vegetarians and vegans. With only 170 calories in a serving, they're a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.

Not only are these cholle low in calories, but they're also high in protein and fiber. A serving of Amritsari cholle contains around 10 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber, making them a great choice for those looking to fill up without overindulging.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Amritsari cholle, from their ingredients to their nutritional information and even a vegan recipe for you to try at home!

What are Amritsari Cholle?

Amritsari cholle are a type of chickpea curry that originates from the Punjab region of India. The dish is typically made with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, as well as tomatoes and onions. What sets Amritsari cholle apart from other chickpea curries is the use of dried pomegranate seeds (anardhana) and dried mango powder (amchur) to lend a unique tangy flavor to the dish. These ingredients give Amritsari cholle a distinct taste that's different from other chickpea curries. In India, Amritsari cholle are often enjoyed with kulcha, a type of flatbread that's similar to naan. They can also be served with rice or on their own as a hearty vegetarian meal.

Calories in Amritsari Cholle

A serving of 1/3 pack (100 g) of Amritsari cholle contains approximately 170 calories. This makes them a great option for those looking for a filling meal that won't break the calorie bank. Of course, the number of calories you consume will vary depending on the size of your serving and the type of bread or rice you choose to enjoy with your Amritsari cholle. However, as a general rule, this dish is relatively low in calories compared to other meals.

Amritsari Cholle Ingredients

While the exact recipe for Amritsari cholle can vary depending on who you ask, there are a few key ingredients that are commonly used. These include:

• Chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans)
• Dried pomegranate seeds (anardhana)
• Dried mango powder (amchur)
• Cumin, coriander, and garam masala
• Tomatoes and onions
• Ginger and garlic
• Green chilies (optional)

While these ingredients may seem simple, when combined they create a delicious and hearty dish that's perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike!

How to Prepare Amritsari Cholle?

Preparing Amritsari cholle is relatively simple, although it does require a bit of time and patience. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

1. Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight in water.
2. Drain the chickpeas and rinse them well.
3. Add the chickpeas to a pressure cooker along with 4 cups of water, sliced onions, chopped tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a mixture of cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
4. Pressure cook for 10-15 minutes until the chickpeas are tender.
5. Mash a few of the chickpeas to help thicken the sauce.
6. Add dried pomegranate seeds and dried mango powder to lend a tangy flavor to the dish.
7. Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors have melded together.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with your choice of bread or rice.

Of course, this recipe is just a starting point - feel free to customize the spices and ingredients to suit your taste!

Amritsari Cholle Nutrition Facts

A serving of 1/3 pack (100 g) of Amritsari cholle contains approximately:

• 170 calories
• 10 grams of protein
• 7 grams of fiber
• 2 grams of fat
• 0 grams of cholesterol
• 280 milligrams of sodium
• 24 grams of carbohydrates
• 5 grams of sugar

Not only are these cholle low in calories, but they're also a good source of protein and fiber. They're also low in fat and cholesterol, making them a great choice for those watching their heart health.

Health Benefits of Amritsari Cholle

There are several health benefits associated with eating Amritsari cholle. Here are just a few:

• High in protein: As we've mentioned, Amritsari cholle are a great source of protein, making them a filling and satisfying meal.
• Good source of fiber: The high fiber content in cholle can help you feel fuller for longer and aid digestion.
• Low in fat: With only 2 grams of fat per serving, Amritsari cholle are a great way to fill up without packing on the pounds.
• Low in cholesterol: Cholle are naturally low in cholesterol, making them a great choice for those with heart health concerns.
• High in vitamins and minerals: Chickpeas are a great source of vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and magnesium.

While Amritsari cholle may not be a 'superfood' per se, they can certainly contribute to a healthy and balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Amritsari Cholle Serving Size

A serving of Amritsari cholle is typically around 1/2-1 cup, or 100-200 grams. Of course, the serving size you choose will depend on your own dietary needs and preferences.

Amritsari Cholle Side Effects

For most people, there are no side effects associated with eating Amritsari cholle. However, if you have an allergy to chickpeas or any of the spices used in this dish, you may want to avoid it.

Vegan Amritsari Cholle Recipe

If you're looking for a vegan Amritsari cholle recipe, look no further! Here's a vegan-friendly version of this classic Punjabi dish:

1. Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight in water.
2. Drain the chickpeas and rinse them well.
3. In a large pot, sauté onions, ginger, and garlic in oil until soft and fragrant.
4. Add chopped tomatoes and continue cooking until the tomatoes have broken down into a thick sauce.
5. Add cumin, coriander, and garam masala to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the chickpeas and enough water to cover them.
7. Cover the pot and let the chickpeas cook for 30-40 minutes, or until they're tender.
8. Mash a few of the chickpeas to help thicken the sauce.
9. Add dried pomegranate seeds and dried mango powder to lend a tangy flavor to the dish.
10. Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors have melded together.
11. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with your choice of bread or rice.

This vegan version of Amritsari cholle is just as flavorful and filling as the traditional recipe - give it a try!

Where to Buy Amritsari Cholle

If you're lucky enough to live near a specialty Indian grocery store, you might be able to find Amritsari cholle in the canned or packaged food section. If not, you can always try making your own from scratch using dried chickpeas and your favorite spices.