Doubles (Trinidadian Street Food)
Experience the vibrant flavors of Trinidad and Tobago with Doubles, a beloved street food that combines soft, fluffy flatbread with spiced chickpea curry. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a flavorful snack, Doubles is a must-try for anyone wanting a taste of Caribbean cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Bara (Flatbread)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more for frying
For the Channa (Chickpea Curry)
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Optional Toppings
- Tamarind chutney
- Hot pepper sauce
- Fresh chopped cucumber or cilantro
Instructions
Prepare the Channa
- Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Stir for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add chickpeas and water or broth. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chickpeas are fully flavored and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the Bara
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, turmeric, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and knead until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 30–60 minutes.
- Divide dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball into a thin circle, about 4–5 inches in diameter.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Fry each flatbread until puffed and golden brown, about 1–2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Assemble the Doubles
- Place a portion of the chickpea curry on a piece of fried bara.
- Fold or stack another bara on top.
- Drizzle with tamarind chutney and hot pepper sauce if desired. Add fresh toppings like cucumber or cilantro.
Serve
Serve Doubles warm as a hearty snack or meal. Perfectly paired with a sweet or spicy sauce, Doubles captures the essence of Trinidadian street food in every bite.
