"Savoring Tradition: The Simple Joy of Sada Roti and Tomato Choka"

When it comes to comfort food, every culture has its staples that bring warmth and a sense of home. In Trinidad and Tobago, one such dish is Tomato Choka and Sada Roti. Simple, yet flavorful this pairing is a breakfast favorite that also works perfectly for lunch or dinner.

What is Tomato Choka?

Tomato Choka is a savory, smoky, and slightly spicy dish made from roasted tomatoes. The tomatoes are charred over an open flame or grilled, then mashed with garlic, onions, and hot peppers. The result is rich and tasty and is often enjoyed with Sada Roti.

The key to the best Tomato Choka lies in the roasting. The charring process intensifies the flavor of the tomatoes, adding a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish. Fresh garlic and hot peppers bring the heat and aroma, while onions add a touch of sweetness.

Sada Roti: The Perfect Accompaniment

Sada Roti is a simple, unleavened flatbread made from flour, water, and a pinch of salt. It’s soft, pillowy, and the ideal vehicle for scooping up Tomato Choka. Unlike other rotis, Sada Roti is cooked on a tawah (a flat, cast-iron griddle) and is usually served hot off the stove.

The beauty of Sada Roti lies in its simplicity. It’s a bread that is quick and easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients that are typically found in every kitchen. Despite its simplicity, it’s incredibly satisfying and complements the robust flavors of the Tomato Choka perfectly

Tomato Choka Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 large tomatoes

• 1 head garlic roasted

• 1/2 onion, finely sliced

• bandania leaves optional

• 1-2 hot peppers (depending on your heat preference), roasted

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the tomatoes over an open flame, on a grill, or under a broiler until the skin is charred and the tomatoes are soft.

2. Once roasted, allow the tomatoes to cool slightly before peeling off the charred skin.

3. In a bowl, mash the roasted tomatoes using a fork or pestle

4. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan, and pour hot oil over choka this is also known as (chunkay)

5. Add salt to taste

6. Serve hot with freshly made Sada Roti.

Sada Roti Recipe

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour

4 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

Water (enough to form a soft dough)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar baking powder, and salt.

2. Gradually add water to the flour mixture and knead until you have a soft, smooth dough. Let rest for about 1 hour.

3. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball) and let them rest for about 10 minutes.

4. Roll each ball into a flat circle, about ¼ inch thick.

5. Heat a tawah or a heavy skillet over medium heat.

6. Cook each roti on the hot tawah, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown and slightly puffed.

7. Serve the Sada Roti warm with Tomato Choka.

A Comforting Tradition

Tomato Choka and Sada Roti is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast with a cup of tea, or serving it for a light dinner, this dish is a reminder of the simple joys of home-cooked food. The combination of the smoky Tomato Choka with the soft, warm Sada Roti is one that never fails to satisfy.

So, next time you’re looking for a meal that’s both hearty and easy to make, give Tomato Choka and Sada Roti a try. It’s a taste of Trinidad that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too.

Check out my YouTube channel for video a complete video tutorial.