Chole bhature

Chole Bhature, known as Halwa Puri in Pakistan, is a cherished dish originating from northern India. This delectable meal combines spicy chana masala (a chickpea curry) with bhatura or poori, both types of fried bread prepared from maida flour. The dish is available in a Punjabi variant and is a popular breakfast choice in both India and Pakistan. The main distinction between Chole Bhature and Halwa Puri lies in the inclusion of halwa, a sweet dish, which accompanies the bread and chana masala in Halwa Puri.

Chole Bhature is often savored in the morning, frequently accompanied by a refreshing glass of lassi. It is commonly found as street food or as a complete meal, complemented by sides such as onions, pickled carrots, green chutney, or achaar (pickle).

In Pakistan, Halwa Puri, a dish with its roots in the Indian subcontinent, typically features poori or bhature served with chana masala or bhaaji (vegetable curry) and halwa. This dish is a favorite across Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi cuisines.

The origins of this dish trace back to the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, particularly Uttar Pradesh. It is also favored in Nepal's Terai region by the Madheshi community. In various Indian states, Halwa Puri is served as prasada (a religious offering) among Hindus and Sikhs. In Pakistan, enjoying a breakfast of Nihari and Halwa Puri is a cherished tradition, especially in cities like Lahore and Karachi.

Over time, Halwa Puri has become a staple breakfast item, featuring deep-fried bread (poori), halwa, chickpea and potato curries, mango pickle, onion pickle, and fresh yogurt. Many bakeries offer Halwa Puri for breakfast, drawing in customers from middle to upper-middle and elite classes for both dine-in and takeaway options. It remains a breakfast favorite within these social circles.