Authentic Trini-Style Dhalpuri: A Traditional Caribbean Delicacy

Ingredients

2 cups of split peas
4 cups of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 teaspoons of salt
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
1 cup of water (you may need more or less)
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 cup of butter, melted

Steps and instructions

Place the split peas in a bowl, cover with plenty of water, and soak for about 2 hours. After this, drain well.
In a food processor, grind the drained split peas until they are finely ground. Add the ground turmeric, ground cumin, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt to the ground peas and continue to process until the mixture is well combined.
In a separate large bowl, sift the flour and add the remaining salt and the baking powder. Gradually add water, kneading the mixture until it forms a soft, elastic dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Divide the dough into equal-sized balls. Flatten each ball into a circle and add a spoonful of the split pea mixture in the middle. Bring the edges of the dough together to seal in the filling, then roll it out again into a flat round bread.
Heat a griddle or a large flat pan over medium heat. Brush each side of the dhalpuri with a little melted butter, then cook it on the heated griddle for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough and split pea mixture. Serve the dhalpuri warm.

Tools for making

Food Processor - Used to grind the split peas and combine them with the spices.
Large Bowl - Used to mix the flour, salt, and baking powder to make the dough.
Griddle or Large Flat Pan - Used to cook the dhalpuri bread.
Brush - Used to brush melted butter onto the dhalpuri bread while cooking.
Sieve - Used to sift the flour and remove any lumps.
Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough into flat rounds.
Damp Cloth - Used to cover the dough and keep it moist while resting.
Bowl - Used to soak the split peas.

Recipe variations

Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Add finely chopped onions and hot peppers to the split pea mixture for added flavor and spice.
Include cooked and mashed sweet potatoes or pumpkin in the split pea filling for a unique twist.
Make a gluten-free version by using a combination of gluten-free flours, such as chickpea flour and rice flour.
For a meat-free option, omit the split peas and replace them with mashed lentils or chickpeas as the filling.
Add a variety of herbs and spices to the dough, such as dried thyme, ground coriander, or garam masala, to enhance the flavor.
Experiment with different types of fillings, such as spiced potato, spinach, or grated cheese.
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
Create a sweet version by adding sugar, cinnamon, and raisins to the dough, and serve it with a drizzle of honey or syrup.

Recipe overview

Dhalpuri is a popular flatbread originating from the Indian subcontinent and widely enjoyed in the Caribbean, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. It's a filling and flavorful dish typically stuffed with ground split peas and an assortment of spices. This recipe will guide you step by step to create this delightful bread that is best served warm. This Dhalpuri recipe might require some precision, but the end result is a deliciously fragrant and soft bread with a savory filling that pairs well with curries and stews. Expect to be hands-on with the dough, as kneading it to the right consistency is crucial for the perfect Dhalpuri. Once you've mastered this recipe, you'll have a versatile bread that can accompany a wide variety of dishes.

Common questions

Can I use canned split peas instead of soaking and grinding them myself?
Yes, you can use canned split peas as a time-saving alternative. Simply drain and rinse the canned split peas before using them in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is traditionally used in dhalpuri, you can experiment with other flours such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if desired. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding with rolling and cooking.
Can I freeze the dhalpuri?
Yes, dhalpuri can be frozen. Allow the cooked dhalpuri to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between each bread to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
What can I serve with dhalpuri?
Dhalpuri is commonly served with various curries, chutneys, or savory dishes. It pairs well with curried vegetables, chicken curry, or even traditional Trinidadian dishes like curried goat.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining ingredients and kneading the dough.
Food Processor - A kitchen appliance used for grinding the split peas and other ingredients.
Griddle or Large Flat Pan - A cooking surface for cooking the dhalpuri bread.
Brush - Used for brushing melted butter onto the dhalpuri while cooking.
Spatula - A utensil for flipping and removing the dhalpuri from the griddle or pan.

Origin stories

Dhalpuri, a type of Indian flatbread, has a rich history that extends beyond the Indian subcontinent and into the Caribbean. It found its way to Trinidad and Tobago through indentured laborers from India in the 19th century. Despite its humble origins, Dhalpuri quickly became a beloved staple in Trinidadian cuisine, commonly served with curries and stews. Its popularity is such that it's often a must-have during festive occasions and gatherings. The process of preparing Dhalpuri, from the intricate preparation of the dough to the meticulous stuffing of the spiced split peas, mirrors the complex blend of cultures that make up the island's unique culinary tradition.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.