Himachali Siddu Recipe: A Delicious Taste of Himachal Pradesh

Himachali Siddu is a popular traditional snack from Himachal Pradesh, a state in northern India. It is a steamed bread filled with a flavorful stuffing of spices, herbs, and sometimes lentils. Siddu is typically served with chutney or ghee and is enjoyed with a cup of tea. This dish is rich in history and is an integral part of Himachali cuisine. Let’s dive into the Himachali Siddu recipe, where you’ll learn to make this delicious dish in a few easy steps.

Ingredients for Himachali Siddu

For the dough:

1. 2 cups of whole wheat flour
2. 1 tsp salt
3. 1 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
4. Warm water (as needed)
5. 1 tsp ghee or oil

For the filling:

1. 1 cup of finely chopped onions
2. 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
3. 1 tbsp cumin seeds
4. 1 tbsp coriander powder
5. 1 tsp garam masala
6. 1-2 green chilies (optional)
7. Salt to taste
8. 2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
9. 2 tbsp oil

How to Make Himachali Siddu: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the dough

1. In a mixing bowl, add the wheat flour and salt.
2. Add carom seeds to enhance flavor and digestion.
3. Gradually add warm water and knead into a soft, smooth dough.
4. Once the dough is ready, add a little ghee or oil to make it soft. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the filling

1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.
2. Once the cumin seeds splutter, add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
3. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden.
4. Add coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well.
5. Toss in chopped green chilies (if using) and fresh cilantro for added flavor.
6. Cook the mixture until the spices release their fragrance, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Shape and stuff the dough

1. Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls.
2. Roll each ball into a flat circle, similar to a roti, using a rolling pin.
3. Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of the rolled-out dough.
4. Carefully fold the edges of the dough to seal the filling inside. Pinch the edges together to form a pouch.

Step 4: Steam the Siddu

1. Prepare a steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack.
2. Place the filled dough pouches in the steamer and cover it.
3. Steam the Siddu for about 15-20 minutes, until the dough is cooked and soft.

Step 5: Serve the Siddu

1. Once done, serve the Siddu hot with a dollop of ghee, mint chutney, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Himachali Siddu

1. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
2. For a spicier filling, add more green chilies or red chili powder.
3. You can also add finely chopped vegetables to the filling for added nutrition.
4. Make sure to steam the Siddu properly. Over-steaming can make it too soft, while under-steaming may leave it doughy inside.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Himachali Siddu

Q: What is Siddu?

A: Siddu is a traditional Himachali dish made of steamed wheat flour dough, stuffed with a mixture of spices, onions, and sometimes lentils. It is usually served with ghee or chutney.

Q: Can I make Siddu without a steamer?

A: Yes, you can use a regular large pot with a steaming rack or even a pressure cooker without the weight. Just ensure the water does not touch the Siddu while steaming.

Q: How can I make the filling for Siddu?

A: The filling for Siddu usually consists of onions, garlic, ginger, spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, and green chilies. You can also add vegetables or lentils for variation.

Q: Can I freeze Siddu for later use?

A: Yes, you can freeze Siddu before steaming. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, steam them directly from the freezer.

Q: What can I serve with Siddu?

A: Siddu is typically served with ghee, chutney, or a yogurt dip. You can also enjoy it with a hot cup of tea.

Conclusion

Himachali Siddu is a delicious and filling snack, perfect for any time of the day. With its soft, steamed dough and flavorful filling, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite in Himachal Pradesh. Now that you know the Himachali Siddu recipe, you can easily make this treat at home and enjoy a taste of Himachali cuisine wherever you are.

| Also Read: Laphing Recipe: A Delicious and Spicy Tibetan Street Food