If you’ve ever been to Trinidad and Tobago, you’ve likely encountered one of the most iconic street foods in the region: doubles. This delicious, satisfying snack is the perfect combination of soft bara (fried flatbread) and a spicy, flavorful channa (curried chickpeas). Doubles is not just a dish—it’s a piece of Trinidadian culture that captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine. In this article, I’ll show you how to make this amazing treat right at home, step by step.
What Are Doubles?
Doubles are one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most beloved street foods. Picture this: a warm, golden-brown fried flatbread stuffed with soft chickpeas, soaked in spicy curry, and topped with a variety of tangy and savory condiments. The combination of crunchy, spicy, and savory flavors makes it a go-to snack for any time of the day.
What makes it even more exciting is the versatility of the toppings. You can personalize it with your favorite sauces like sweet mango chutney, shado beni (Cilantro), or even a kick of pepper sauce. In essence, it’s a customizable meal packed with flavor, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!
Ingredients for Doubles
To make authentic Trinidadian doubles, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that come together to create the unique flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Bara (Fried Flatbread):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for kneading)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Channa (Curried Chickpeas):
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (canned or boiled)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 cups water (adjust for consistency)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Toppings (Optional):
- Shado beni (Cilantro)
- Sweet mango chutney
- Pepper sauce
- Cucumber or carrot slaw (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Doubles
Step 1: Make the Bara (Fried Flatbread)
The bara is a crucial part of the doubles, as it holds all of the flavor and fillings together. To make it, start by combining the flour, yeast, sugar, turmeric, cumin seeds, and salt in a large bowl. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Next, gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients while mixing with your hands until a dough starts to form. You want the dough to be soft but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once done, drizzle the dough with vegetable oil and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest for about an hour to allow it to rise. It should double in size during this time.
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 10-12 small balls. Roll each ball into a smooth ball and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This ensures they puff up properly when frying.
In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Flatten each dough ball into a small circle about 4-5 inches in diameter. Fry the flatbreads for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them carefully, as they will puff up like little pillows. Once done, place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Channa (Curried Chickpeas)
While your bara dough is rising, it’s the perfect time to prepare the curried chickpeas (channa). Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
Next, add the curry powder, cumin powder, turmeric, garam masala, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well, and let the spices cook for about a minute to release their aroma.
Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan and stir to coat them evenly with the spice mixture. Pour in about 2 cups of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the chickpeas cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.
Once the channa is ready, sprinkle it with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor. Your curried chickpeas are now ready for the next step!
Step 3: Assemble the Doubles
Now comes the fun part—assembling your doubles! Place a bara on a plate or flat surface, and using a spoon, generously scoop some of the curried chickpeas onto the center of the bara. Be sure to add plenty of the delicious sauce as well!
Top with your choice of condiments, such as shado beni (Cilantro), sweet mango chutney, and a little pepper sauce for some extra heat. If you like, you can also add a refreshing cucumber or carrot slaw on top for added crunch.
Fold the bara over the filling to create a sandwich-like shape. It’s time to eat!
Tips for Perfect Doubles
- Freshness is key: Doubles are best served fresh. The bara should be warm and soft, and the channa should be flavorful and slightly saucy.
- Don’t rush the dough: Letting the dough rise properly ensures your bara will be soft and fluffy when fried.
- Customize your toppings: Doubles are very customizable. If you prefer a milder version, skip the pepper sauce and stick with chutneys and cilantro. The choice is yours!
Conclusion
Making doubles at home is a fun and rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Trinidad straight to your kitchen. With its soft bara, spicy channa, and variety of toppings, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a snack, a lunch, or even a party treat. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a little piece of Caribbean street food in your own home.
So, the next time you’re craving something unique and full of flavor, why not give doubles a try? It’s easy, it’s tasty, and it’ll take you on a delicious culinary journey.
FAQs
How do I store leftover doubles?
Leftover bara and channa can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the bara by briefly frying it again, and heat the channa on the stove before serving.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just allow it to come to room temperature before frying.
Can I freeze doubles?
You can freeze the bara after frying. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
What other toppings can I use for doubles?
Besides chutney and pepper sauce, you can also try adding pickled onions, sliced tomatoes, or avocado to enhance the flavor.
Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, canned chickpeas are a great time-saver and can be used in this recipe without any issues.
Can I make doubles gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this dish.
What other types of chutney work with doubles?
Besides mango chutney, you can try lime chutney or papaya chutney for a different twist.
How can I make the channa spicier?
For more heat, add fresh chili peppers or increase the amount of pepper sauce.
Is doubles a vegetarian dish?
Yes, doubles is entirely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting any dairy-based toppings.
Can I use a different type of bread for doubles?
While bara is traditional, you can experiment with other flatbreads like naan or pita if you prefer.