Chatpata Soya

I have had a soft spot for the Soya Chunk Curry from the time I was a little girl. All my life I heard my mom call them Nutella. This was synonymous with the brand that was making them. Back in those days, several of my South Indian friends would refuse to even try this thinking it was meat.

 I simply love the juicy chunks specially when it oozes out the tasty gravy when you bite into them. I am partial to the spongy texture of the Soya chunks. And its a good source of protein. Though as a hard-core meat person, I don't have to resort to Soya chucks for my source of protein :-) .

I eat it simply because I love it...

So here is how I make it.

You need the following ingredients :-

• Soya Nuggets :- 250 Grms
• Onion :- 1 big. Chopped.
• Garlic :- 4 to 5 pods. Crushed
• Tomatoes :- 2 small or 1 big
• Ginger :- 1" piece. Grated.
• Garlic :- 3 to 4 pods. Crushed.
• Turmeric Pd:- 1/2 Tsp.
• Cumin Pd :- 1 tsp
• Chilli Pd :- 1 tsp.
• Garam Masala Pd :- 1 Tsp
• Pepper Pd :- 1 Tsp
•  Salt :- As per taste
• Sugar (Optional) :- 1/2 tsp
• Coriandar Leaves :- 2 Tsp Chopped

Preparation Method :-

1. Soak the soya chunks in hot water for a couple of hours. Drain the water and squeeze the water out of the chunks. Keep it aside.
2. Heat 2 tbsp. oil in a kadai and add the chopped onions and till translucent.
3. Add the ginger and garlic. Continue frying.
4. Add the tomatoes and try till they are mushy.
5. Add turmeric pd, Chilli pd, Cumin powder and the Garam Masala pd.  
6. Stir well. Add a few spoons of water in case the Masala is burning.
7. Once the Masala is well fried, add the Soya Chunks and mix it well with the Masala.
8. Add the pepper powder and Salt. Mix well.
9. Add 1 cup of warm water and cook for a few 5 minutes. 
10. Add the Sugar and mix well. 
11. Garnish with coirandar leaves.