Tasty Doubles

‘Doubles’ is arguably the most tasty and popular street food in beautiful Trinidad and Tobago. It is well seasoned, saucy channa, or chick pea, between 2 pillow soft baras. These can be found at so many corners around the country, but it is so simple to make at home. As I always say – homemade is better!

Add 400 grams of channa / chick peas, 1/2 tsp baking powder and 4 cups water to a bowl the night before making the doubles.

Pre-cook soaked Channa with:

2 tsp curry powder

1 tbsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda

2-3 tbsp green seasoning mix

3-4 cloves garlic, crushed

4 cups water

1/2 cup dhal/split peas (optional)

The pre-cooked channa can be frozen and it stays well for several weeks.

To make the Doubles:

Bara:

1 1/3 cup flour, sifted

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp yeast

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp brown sugar

1/2 cup warm water

1 tsp vegetable oil for kneading Oil for frying

Channa:

2 cups pre-cooked channa

2 cups water

2 garlic cloves, grated

2 tsp chopped chadon beni/ bandania

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp baking powder

1 1/2 tsp ground geera

1/2 tsp curry powder

a pinch ground turmeric, just enough to get desired color

salt to taste

Chadon Beni Sauce:

10 leaves chadon beni/ bandania, finely chopped

2 gloves garlic, minced

1/4 tsp sugar

salt to taste

2-3 tbsp water (pepper optional)