"Master the Art of Flavor with This Irresistible Doubles Recipe: A Culinary Journey into Trinidadian Street Food"

#### Introduction to Doubles RecipeDoubles, a beloved street food from Trinidad and Tobago, is a delightful combination of curried chickpeas (channa) sandwi……

#### Introduction to Doubles Recipe

Doubles, a beloved street food from Trinidad and Tobago, is a delightful combination of curried chickpeas (channa) sandwiched between two soft, fluffy bara (fried flatbreads). This dish is not only a staple in Caribbean cuisine but also a favorite for its rich flavors and satisfying texture. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of a traditional doubles recipe, providing you with step-by-step instructions to recreate this culinary gem in your own kitchen.

#### Ingredients for the Perfect Doubles Recipe

To embark on your doubles-making adventure, you will need the following ingredients:

- **For the Bara (Flatbread):**

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- Water (as needed)

- Oil (for frying)

- **For the Channa (Curried Chickpeas):**

- 2 cups canned chickpeas (or cooked dried chickpeas)

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon curry powder

- 1 teaspoon cumin

- 1 teaspoon coriander

- 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (to taste)

- Salt to taste

- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

#### Step-by-Step Preparation of Doubles Recipe

1. **Making the Bara:**

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, turmeric, salt, and sugar. Mix well.

- Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, kneading until you achieve a soft, pliable dough. Let it rest for about 30 minutes, covered with a damp cloth.

- After resting, divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a flat disc about ¼ inch thick.

2. **Frying the Bara:**

- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully drop in the rolled-out bara.

- Fry until the bara puffs up and turns golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

3. **Preparing the Channa:**

- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.

- Stir in the minced garlic, curry powder, cumin, and coriander, cooking for a few minutes until fragrant.

- Add the chickpeas (drained if using canned) and enough water to cover them. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and add chopped Scotch bonnet peppers for spice.

4. **Assembling the Doubles:**

- Take one bara and spoon a generous amount of the curried chickpeas onto it. Top with another bara to create a sandwich.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your choice of condiments, such as mango chutney or pepper sauce for an extra kick.

#### Enjoying Your Doubles

Your homemade doubles are now ready to be enjoyed! This dish is perfect for a snack, a light meal, or even as part of a larger Caribbean feast. The combination of the warm bara and the spicy, flavorful channa creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please your palate.

#### Conclusion

The doubles recipe is a testament to the vibrant culinary culture of Trinidad and Tobago. By following this guide, you can bring a taste of the Caribbean to your home kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a comforting meal, doubles are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor this delicious street food classic!