How much protein is in 100g of Chole Bhature?

December 4, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a typical 100g serving of Chole Bhature contains between 8 and 13 grams of protein, though this amount can vary significantly based on preparation. While chickpeas are a potent source of plant-based protein, the final protein content is influenced by the proportion of chole to bhature and cooking methods.

Quick Summary

This article examines the protein content of Chole Bhature, analyzing the contributions from both the chickpea curry (chole) and the refined flour bread (bhature). It discusses how preparation variations and portion sizes impact the overall nutritional value and compares its protein level with other vegetarian staples. The piece also provides tips for making the dish more protein-rich and healthier.

Key Points

Moderate Protein Content: A 100g serving of Chole Bhature contains a moderate amount of protein, typically ranging from 8 to 13 grams, with the chickpeas being the main source.
Chickpeas are Key: The chole component, made from chickpeas, is a valuable source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.
Bhature's Impact: The bhature, often made from refined flour (maida) and deep-fried, dilutes the overall protein density and adds a high amount of calories and fat.
Preparation is Critical: The final protein amount is heavily influenced by the ratio of chole to bhature and how it's prepared, such as the amount of oil used.
Healthier Alternatives Exist: For a higher protein, lower-fat meal, replace bhature with whole wheat rotis, baked kulchas, or pair the chole with brown rice.
Balance is Important: Combining Chole Bhature with a fresh salad or other protein sources can help balance its nutritional profile and enhance its health benefits.

Deconstructing the Protein in Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a beloved North Indian dish, celebrated for its rich, spicy chickpea curry (chole) paired with soft, deep-fried bread (bhature). When assessing its nutritional value, particularly its protein content, it's crucial to analyze the two main components separately. The chickpeas are the primary protein source, while the bhature, typically made from refined flour, offers minimal protein in comparison to its caloric load.

The Protein Powerhouse: Chickpeas

Cooked chickpeas, or 'chana', are the star of the chole curry and are a fantastic source of plant-based protein. On average, 100 grams of cooked chickpeas contain approximately 8 to 9 grams of protein. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. The protein in chickpeas is not a complete protein, meaning it lacks one or more essential amino acids. However, this is easily remedied by combining it with other plant-based foods, such as the whole wheat often found in other Indian breads. The specific protein quantity can fluctuate depending on whether the chickpeas are boiled or incorporated into a thick, spiced gravy.

The Bhature's Contribution

The bhature, a deep-fried bread, is traditionally made with refined flour (maida), which contains very little protein after processing. A 100g portion of chole bhature, where the bhature makes up a significant portion, will therefore have its overall protein value diluted by the low-protein, high-calorie flour. Some recipes may incorporate whole wheat flour or a mix of grains, which can slightly increase the protein and fiber content, but the deep-frying process still introduces a high amount of unhealthy fats.

Factors Affecting Protein in Your Plate

Several variables can influence the final protein count of your meal. Understanding these can help you make more informed dietary choices.

The Chole-to-Bhature Ratio: A generous portion of chole will naturally boost the protein content, whereas a plate dominated by bhature will lower the overall protein percentage per 100g. Street food versions often prioritize the bhature, while home-cooked meals might be more balanced.
Cooking Method: The cooking method of the chole can affect its nutritional profile. A rich, heavy gravy made with excess oil can increase the calorie and fat content, while a drier, healthier version can be more protein-focused. Similarly, opting for baked kulchas instead of fried bhature dramatically alters the nutritional breakdown.
Recipe Variations: Some recipes may include yogurt or paneer in the bhature dough, which increases the protein content. The type of oil used for frying also plays a role, with healthier oils being a better choice if frying is necessary.

Comparison of Chole Bhature with Other Vegetarian Protein Sources

To put the protein in Chole Bhature into perspective, here is a comparison with other common Indian vegetarian foods per 100g.


Food Item	Protein per 100g (Approx.)	Protein Source	Notes
Chole Bhature	8–13g	Chickpeas, refined flour	Varies widely based on preparation and ratio of chole to bhature.
Lentils (Dal)	~24g	Lentils	Very high protein; can be combined with rice for a complete meal.
Greek Yogurt	~10g	Milk	Also rich in calcium and probiotics; a versatile protein source.
Paneer	~18g	Milk	Higher in fat than legumes, but a strong source of protein and calcium.
Quinoa	~14g	Quinoa	A complete protein, rich in fiber and minerals, gluten-free.
Soya Chunks	~52g	Soybeans	Extremely high in protein, but a processed food.

Making Chole Bhature a Healthier Choice

While the traditional version is a treat, several modifications can make it more nutritious. Using whole wheat flour or multigrain flour instead of maida for the bhature adds fiber and some protein. Health-conscious individuals can opt to bake kulchas or pair the chole with whole wheat rotis or brown rice to avoid deep-frying. Additionally, incorporating a fresh salad of onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes with a lemon dressing can add vitamins and fiber to balance the heavy meal. For a lighter option, chole can be enjoyed as a salad with sprouts and other vegetables.

Conclusion: Protein on a Plate

In conclusion, 100g of Chole Bhature provides a moderate amount of protein, primarily sourced from the chickpea curry. The final figure, typically between 8 and 13 grams, is not as high as standalone protein sources like dal or paneer due to the inclusion of the deep-fried bhature. While chickpeas are a solid plant-based protein, the dish's overall nutritional value is significantly impacted by the cooking method and the ratio of its components. By making simple substitutions, like opting for whole wheat bread or baked alternatives, it is possible to create a healthier version of this popular Indian dish that retains its delicious flavor while offering a more balanced nutritional profile. This doesn't mean you can't enjoy the traditional version, but being aware of its composition helps in balancing it within a healthy diet. For more detailed nutritional information, check out resources like Nutritionix.

Frequently Asked Questions

The chole, or the spiced chickpea curry, contains the majority of the protein in the dish. Chickpeas are a high-protein legume, while the bhature is primarily carbohydrates from refined flour.

To boost the protein, you can increase the proportion of chole and reduce the bhature. You could also pair the chole with whole wheat roti or a paneer-stuffed kulcha for a more protein-rich meal.

No, chickpeas are an incomplete protein, meaning they do not contain all nine essential amino acids. However, combining them with a grain like rice or whole wheat roti can create a complete protein meal.

While the total protein from the chickpeas remains constant, the protein per 100g of the final dish is diluted by the lower-protein bhature, especially if it's deep-fried. Healthier preparation methods, like baking the bread, can improve the overall nutritional balance.

Chole Bhature provides protein, but its healthfulness is debatable due to the deep-fried bhature. While the chickpeas are nutritious, the combination is high in calories and unhealthy fats. Healthier versions are a better option for regular consumption.

Compared to dishes focused solely on legumes like lentil dal or paneer, Chole Bhature typically has a lower protein concentration per 100g because the low-protein, high-fat bhature is a key component.

Yes, using whole wheat flour or a multigrain blend for the bhature dough can increase the fiber and protein content, making it a more nutritious option than using refined flour (maida).