Delicious Litti-Chokha Recipe: A Taste of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh

Litti-Chokha is a cherished dish from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, celebrated for its unique flavors and cultural significance. This article provides a detailed recipe, guiding you through the preparation of the spicy sattu filling, the kneading of the dough, and the smoky chokha. With easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this traditional meal at home and enjoy it with chutney and pickled onions. Dive into the rich culinary heritage of India with this delightful recipe!

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 11:42 IST

Introduction to Litti-Chokha

Litti-Chokha is not merely a dish; it embodies the rich culinary heritage of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. This beloved meal is cherished by locals and has now captured the attention of food enthusiasts globally.

Combining the wholesome goodness of sattu with the flavors of eggplant and potatoes, this dish is truly unique. Here’s a straightforward recipe to prepare litti-chokha at home.

Preparing the Sattu Filling

Sattu filling for litti
The essence of litti is found in its spicy sattu filling.
Ingredients:
Sattu (roasted chickpea flour) - 2 cups
Chopped onion - 1 medium
Grated ginger and garlic - 2 teaspoons
Green chilies - 3-4 (finely chopped)
Coriander leaves - 1/2 cup (chopped)
Pickling masala (preferably for stuffed red chili) - 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
Nigella seeds and carom seeds - 1/2 teaspoon each
Mustard oil - 2 tablespoons
Salt - to taste

Method:
In a large bowl, combine the sattu with all the ingredients. The addition of mustard oil and pickling masala elevates the flavor profile.

Kneading the Dough for Litti

Kneading the dough for the litti
The outer layer of the litti should be firm yet crispy.
Ingredients:
Wheat flour - 3 cups
Celery seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
Ghee or oil (for kneading) - 2 tablespoons
Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
Water - as needed

Method:
Combine the salt, celery seeds, and ghee with the flour, then knead thoroughly. Gradually add water to form a stiff dough. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Making the Chokha

Method:
Chokha is traditionally prepared by roasting ingredients over an open flame, imparting a unique smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
Large eggplant - 1
Tomatoes - 2-3
Boiled potatoes - 2
Finely chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies
Raw mustard oil - 1 tablespoon
Salt and coriander leaves

Method:
Make slight slits in the eggplant and tomatoes, then roast them over a fire until soft. Peel and mash them in a bowl. Mix in the boiled potatoes, chopped garlic, chili, ginger, coriander, and raw mustard oil. Your chokha is now ready.

Cooking the Litti

Preparing and Cooking Litti
Take small portions of dough and shape them into bowls.
Fill each with 1-2 teaspoons of the sattu mixture and seal the edges to form a round shape.
Cook them over a low flame using cow dung cakes, turning occasionally until they achieve a golden brown color.
This can also be done in a gas tandoor or appam maker.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Method
Once the litti is fully cooked, gently press it to break it open and dip it in hot pure ghee. Serve alongside chokha, green chutney, and pickled onions.

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