10 Holi Special Dishes for a Colorful Feast

6. Chole (Chana Masala) with Bhature or Rice — Hearty centerpiece

Chole, a spiced chickpea curry, is a go-to for feeding crowds at Holi gatherings because it’s filling, familiar, and pairs well with bhature or steamed rice. The gravy relies on a tomato-onion base with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. For faster prep in North America, canned chickpeas are perfectly fine — simmer them in a robust masala and finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. If you want the bhature experience without deep frying, serve chole with naan or fluffy basmati rice and a side of pickled onions. Chole is forgiving for scale: make a large pot and keep it warm in a slow cooker for easy serving. Offer accompaniments like sliced chilies, chopped cilantro, and lemon wedges so guests can adjust heat and tang. Portion-wise, plan about a cup of chole per adult when multiple dishes are available.