India’s regional cuisines are full of hidden gems, and Bhakosa is one such dish that deserves more attention. Popular in Kanpur and parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bhakosa is a crispy, spicy snack made by stuffing a lentil mixture inside dough and then cooking it until golden and flavourful. Its crunchy outer layer and spicy chana dal filling make it a favourite among those who enjoy traditional desi snacks.
Recently, digital creator Ravi Goswami shared a video on Instagram showcasing Kanpur’s famous Bhakosa. Calling it “crispy, spicy and full of desi flavour”, the video has introduced many food lovers to this lesser-known local speciality. The clip highlights the simple ingredients and traditional preparation that give the snack its distinctive taste.
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What Makes It A Flavorful Snack?
The filling is prepared using soaked and partially boiled chana dal, along with ginger, garlic and green chillies for flavour.
Ingredients For The Filling
- Chana Dal – 100 g
- Ginger – 1 inch piece
- Garlic – 5-6 cloves
- Green Chillies – 2
- Water – 2 tbsp
- Red Chilli Powder – 1/2 tsp
- Black Salt – 1/2 tsp
- Salt to taste
- Cumin Seeds – 1/4 tsp
The chana dal is boiled for about 8-10 minutes so that it softens slightly while still retaining some texture.
Tempering Ingredients
- Mustard Oil – 1 tbsp
- Mustard Seeds – 1/2 tsp
- Cumin Seeds – 1/4 tsp
- Green Chillies – 2
- Curry Leaves – 2 sprigs
- Coriander Leaves as required
The cooked lentils are mixed with the tempering, creating a spicy and aromatic filling that is then stuffed into dough before cooking.
Why Is Bhakosa Popular?
Unlike many deep-fried snacks, Bhakosa stands out because of its hearty lentil stuffing and bold flavours. The combination of chana dal, spices and mustard oil gives it a distinct taste that reflects the food culture of Uttar Pradesh. It is often enjoyed with tea or served as a savoury snack during gatherings.
Watch The Video Here:
Bhakosa is a simple yet flavour-packed Kanpur speciality that proves traditional snacks never go out of style.
