Doubles (Curry Chickpeas and Spicy Flat Bread)-Doubles are the most famous of Trinidad Street Snack or sandwich and have become known as the epitome of Trinidad’s Street Food culture and one of my favorite Caribbean Street food- hands down.
It’s Greasy, Spicy, Messy and Sensational.
This my friends, is not your everyday sandwich.
I don’t use sensational lightly but when I do, it has to count for something..
I can tell you once you taste this you are going to CRAVE it, Looooong for it, AND want it ALL the time.
Where delicious ends, this sandwich Begins. What am trying to say is that it is beyond delicious!!! Plus it’s Vegan too!!!!!
Seeing doubles?
TRIPLES? OH BOY!!!
Now… just you wait till you try it . You are going to have Seconds and thirds.
Why am I tempting you with so many pictures … Cause I want you to try it.
Any ways, Doubles in a nutshell is a combination curry chickpeas, infused with a blend of aromatic spices sandwiched between two deep-fried Spicy aromatic flat bread dough (Bara).
Here is my own recreation of this Sensational Trinidad sandwich- Loaded with tons of flavor. And not too greasy.
Made with pantry staple ingredients, so anyone can give it a go. Fear not you can too! It’s easy. The only hard part is the waiting.
I used yeast as always because it imparts an additional boost of flavor, for a quicker version go with baking powder.
For the Chickpea curry I used this my trusted, channa aloo aka chickpea curry recipe here without the potatoes. If you haven’t tried it you are missing out. It’s quick and comes together in about 30 minutes. Now it’s your chance to try it out.
This is usually served with condiments like hot sauce, pickled cucumber and or chutney. To be honest you don’t need it!
Make the bara first, then while it is rising make the curry chickpeas.
Enjoy!!!
Doubles (Curry Chickpeas and Spicy Flat Bread)-Doubles are the most famous of Trinidad Street Snack or sandwich and have become known as the epitome of Trinidad’s Street Food culture and one of my favorite Caribbean Street food- hands down.
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½-1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 teaspoons active or dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 1 ¼ cup warm water or more adjust water to form soft dough
- 1 Tablespoon sugar
- ¼ - 1/2 cup canola oil
- 2 -3 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg spice
- 1½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons fresh or dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin spice
- 1 teaspoon white pepper.
- 2 cans of chickpeas drained
- ½ tablespoon bouillon chicken powder optional
- 2 cups or more broth or water
- ½-1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1 scotch bonnet or habanero pepper
- 2 green onions chopped
- 2 tablespoons or more chopped parsley
- Salt to taste
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In a large bowl combine all-purpose, yeast, salt sugar cumin, turmeric, and yeast. Thoroughly mix.
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Then add warm water a little at a time until you get to desired consistency – soft- ball. If dough is too stick some oil to prevent dough from sticking to your hands. Knead for about a minute or 2
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Place dough in an oiled bowl. Set it in a warm area and let it rise and double in size -approximately 1- 2 hours. Punch down.
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Divide in to about 18 or more pieces. These are medium sizes you may make it smaller and divide into walnut sizes.
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Place each piece on rolling board or palm of your hand, if dough is slightly sticky oil both sides with oil roll out flat. Set aside or place directly in frying pan. Repeat with the remainder of the dough
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In a large, sauce pan pour vegetable oil, until it is at place on medium heat until oil is about 350 degrees.
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Fry for about 30 seconds or less on each side. Bara should puff up.
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Use a large spoon or something like that to take it out of the oil. I usually place them on napkins right away to soak up some of the excess oil
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Serve doubles by placing one Bara on a plate, spooning one tablespoon of the chickpea filling on it, topping desired condiments. You may top with an additional bara.
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Heat up large sauce-pan with oil, and add onions, garlic, thyme, cumin spice, all spice, smoked paprika, nutmeg and curry powder, stir occasionally for about 2-3 minutes until onions is translucent.
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Add stock / water if necessary to prevent any burns
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Next add chickpeas, scotch bonnet pepper, green onion and broth. Bring to a boil and let it simmer until sauce thickens, it might take about 20 minutes or more Throw in some parsley, adjust for salt, pepper and stew consistency.
- I used yeast as always because it imparts an additional boost of flavor, for a quicker version go with baking powder.
Marcia Oppong says
12 Apr, 2019 at 5:32 pmHi Imma,
I tried this recipe, and I would say it came out pretty good! My husband and I enjoyed it, and I plan on repeating it! Thanks for your recipes!
Debs says
8 Feb, 2019 at 8:26 amHi,
can I use gram flour to make these (chickpea flour) mixed with a little split pea flour? a bit like the Pholourie?
ImmaculateBites says
10 Feb, 2019 at 6:19 amHi Debs, I haven’t tried it with these flours so can’t give you the exact measurements .Keep in mind that using these flours would alter the taste and texture. You might have to play with the dough for best results .
Sara says
17 Jan, 2019 at 11:08 amThese look amazing! I would love to make these tomorrow but I want to pair it with something green! I saw you mentioned pickled cucumber and chutney- is there a particular chutney that pairs well with this dish? Or any other complimentary sides I could make? Thanks! I can’t wait!
Shalizah says
7 Jan, 2019 at 7:27 amHi I’m from Trinidad. Doubles does not contain anything meat related like the chicken stock. Tamarind Sauce, Coconut Chutney, Cuchela and bandania also known as chadon benni sauce and pepper is very necessary since it is supposed to be spicy and savory dish that embraces all the flavours of the east indian culture. Just curry channa and barra is not doubles for all the foreign people. Things like nutmeg, allspice and cinnamon are never included in our curry dishes. This is a variation and should be stated.
DFS says
15 Jan, 2019 at 12:23 pmIs there a link to an authentic recipe?
Meena says
11 Mar, 2019 at 11:43 amThe author specifically indicated this is ‘her recreation’ of the recipe, which means the ingredients aren’t going to follow the original version 100%. That said, I made this dish the other day and it was absolutely tasty!!! Now I need to figure how to make all the delicious toppings…
Jean-Marie Breslin says
1 Jan, 2019 at 7:29 pmI worked for BWIA for many years and had many friends make and bring me doubles! Well BWIA has been gone for years and I no longer live in Queens so my connections are gone. I would love to try your recipe. Can you tell me what brand or type of curry to use. I have made them before but think I used the wrong kind so I snapped that recipe and can’t wait to try yours.
ImmaculateBites says
2 Jan, 2019 at 8:59 pmI make my own curry. Check it out here https://www.africanbites.com/jamaican-curry-powder/. If you must I like chief brand,
Debra says
26 Jan, 2019 at 4:26 amHi there! Love your recipe, great wayto get kids to eat chickpeas! I will be making tjis again soon. Wanted to send a pic, but couldn’t find where I can send one. Thank you again for sharing your fantastic recipe! I will definitely check out your homemade curry.
Marty Embry says
26 Nov, 2018 at 3:03 pmOk… Well, I made Doubles for the first time ever. This I definitely an awesome dish! The flat bread paired with the Chickpeas is a game changer for me. You can dress it up or dress it down and it’s going to be amazing. I made my own chicken stock and I think great stock makes the dish even better. My son is vegan so I made him a separate vegan dish. My family loves it both ways.
I’m glad that I found your recipe and site. Thank you for sharing!
You’re my new shero!
imma africanbites says
30 Nov, 2018 at 6:00 pmAwww. I’m loving that “shero” term. Thank you! I’m so happy your family loves it. 🙂
Marty Embry says
26 Nov, 2018 at 11:23 amI only recently heard about Doubles. Your recipe sounds great. I’m making it today! Stay tuned…
ImmaculateBites says
28 Nov, 2018 at 10:38 amOne of my favorites! Do let me know how it works out for you.
Marty Embry says
4 Feb, 2019 at 7:14 amThe Doubles were awesome! Everyone in my family LOVED them and my vegan son fell overly in love with them. Two thumbs up for sure! Well, technically it was 8 thumbs up! The flavor was amazing.
Del says
25 Oct, 2018 at 9:42 amCan I use self raising flour
ImmaculateBites says
25 Oct, 2018 at 9:05 pmYou sure can.
Grace says
9 Aug, 2018 at 9:31 amI’ve never made Doubles before but would like to try very soon. The recipe says 2 cans of chickpeas….what size cans, please?
ImmaculateBites says
9 Aug, 2018 at 5:41 pmIt’s 14 ounce size . You are going to be in for a treat. Absolutely love it.
Shakura says
6 May, 2018 at 2:52 pmHi Imma! This recipe looks amazing! What’s the best way to store and reheat the flat bread? Will the texture be the same if I replace baking powder with yeast?
ImmaculateBites says
12 May, 2018 at 6:25 pmHi Shakura, I would make it,let it cook, and freeze. When ready to eat, remove from fridge warm in the oven, until heated through. Yes the the texture would be the same if you replace with yeast.
Taty G says
5 Feb, 2018 at 4:51 pmHey I’m interested in trying this. I crave doubles too often and finding a good spot in my area is hard. How does one substitute the yeast for baking power? What are the measurements and the cook time if its faster.
ImmaculateBites says
6 Feb, 2018 at 8:54 pmIt’s definitely faster when working with baking powder ; Replace yeast with about 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder . Let dough rest for about 5 -10 minutes before frying .
karen says
2 Feb, 2018 at 10:22 amWOW! So delicious and easy! Shared on facebook because everyone should know your mad skills!
ImmaculateBites says
5 Feb, 2018 at 6:32 amAww, thanks Karen!
lillian says
11 Sep, 2017 at 5:12 pmThis looks so delicious! Can I bake the bara instead of frying it?
ImmaculateBites says
12 Sep, 2017 at 3:27 pmYou sure can! However, it wouldn’t have the same texture.
Nola says
17 Aug, 2017 at 5:54 pmOk, so I just died and went to heaven. THANK YOU so much for your doubles recipe. I have been craving doubles ever since I left the northeast where I could usually get them during carnival. But here in the south, no such luck until now. I followed your recipe and it was unbelievably simple and so delicious! I’m so thankful for your website, as I can make these whenever I want now.
ImmaculateBites says
18 Aug, 2017 at 4:56 amFantastic! So glad I could satisfy that craving . This is one of those recipes that I refrain from making often…. I eat it non-stop! Really is flavorful.
Sharon says
26 May, 2017 at 1:29 pmOMG! I’m making this for a party tomorrow. Can’t wait to try it, it looks AMAZING!!!
ImmaculateBites says
26 May, 2017 at 5:24 pmAwesome! You are going to love it !
Dyllap says
25 May, 2017 at 9:30 amMade it. We all love it. Making it again and again…..
ImmaculateBites says
25 May, 2017 at 9:40 amYASS! One of my favorites!
Kitt says
7 Apr, 2017 at 4:10 pmI tried to make it and the bara broke into pieces !! Could you help me lol
ImmaculateBites says
8 Apr, 2017 at 6:44 amOh No! I really can say for sure what the culprit is without actually watching you do it. Maybe the measurements?
Sandy says
5 Mar, 2017 at 6:00 amHi this looks lovely & not had it before. Can I ask is the flour for the flat breads plain or self raising as we have both types in England?
ImmaculateBites says
6 Mar, 2017 at 9:14 amHi Sandy! I used plain flour.
Sandy says
7 Apr, 2017 at 8:58 amOk thankyou. I’m going to try them this week with my son. Great recipes!
Joanne says
22 Nov, 2016 at 7:49 pmDo you dice up the scotch bonnet?
ImmaculateBites says
22 Nov, 2016 at 7:52 pmOnly if I want it the extra heat. I usually cook it whole.
Donna says
18 Sep, 2016 at 10:49 amdelicious recipe made it this morning thank you so much
ImmaculateBites says
18 Sep, 2016 at 10:50 amMy pleasure!!! Glad you enjoyed it.
Kiyon says
13 Jun, 2016 at 11:55 amDo you need to mix the yeast with water first or just add it to the recipe without water?
ImmaculateBites says
14 Jun, 2016 at 4:51 amI just add it to the flour.
Anjali @ Vegetarian Gastronomy says
3 May, 2016 at 9:51 pmI love this dish! But it’s the first time i’ve heard of the term Doubles! My mom makes a similar version and it’s delicious!
ImmaculateBites says
4 May, 2016 at 8:12 amYeah! This has many variations. And it’d Tasty..
Nagi@RecipeTinEats says
13 Apr, 2016 at 3:55 pmImma, my eyes are boggling out of my head at all the incredible dishes you’ve been sharing lately! But THIS….oh my gosh…THIS is killing me! You’re killing me!! I seriously think this might be the single best way with chickpeas EVER. Sharing!!
Lisa says
13 Apr, 2016 at 11:32 amDoubles are my FAVORITE!
ImmaculateBites says
13 Apr, 2016 at 11:56 amThey sure are delightfully!!!
Charlie Craig says
13 Apr, 2016 at 8:21 amCame out very good for me! I really like the flat bread!
ImmaculateBites says
13 Apr, 2016 at 8:41 amAWESOME!!
Hetal says
9 Apr, 2016 at 11:11 amomg..i’ve been craving the hell out of these! Last time I had them was in Trinidad 3 years ago haha — def going to have to make these this week! . Do you have a recipe for Bake by any chance?
ImmaculateBites says
9 Apr, 2016 at 11:16 amYes, I do. Right here https://www.africanbites.com/salt-fish-bake/. Do let me know how it works out for you. Thanks
ann says
8 Apr, 2016 at 5:37 pmYou are a wicked wicked girl! How can I NOT try this, it was made just for me. I have just checked all of the ingredients and I have them all, looking good for tomorrow. Thank you.
ImmaculateBites says
9 Apr, 2016 at 10:25 amOH NO! This was made for ME! Gurrrrl, you are going to make me crave these today and it’s only been days since I last made it. So So happy you have everything you need and it’s on the menu. Do let me know how it works out for you. Thanks!
ImmaculateBites says
8 Apr, 2016 at 8:18 amYes, you should have Sam . It’s great anytime!
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
7 Apr, 2016 at 5:34 pmYum! This looks delicious! I should have made it for dinner tonight!!
Catherine says
7 Apr, 2016 at 5:09 pmOh I have to try these….what a gorgeous dish and so flavorful!! I love the exotics spices..this is right up my alley. Pinning for later! xo, Catherine
ImmaculateBites says
8 Apr, 2016 at 8:17 amThanks Catherine! And do tell when you try it .
Sarah - The Charming Detroiter says
7 Apr, 2016 at 4:43 pmWow these look incredible! I really love that you included all of these “throughout the cooking process” photos because especially with things like dough, it is hard to know sometimes that you have the right consistency of the dough while you are cooking it for the very first time! I’m a huge fan of street food and so this recipe looks so delicious! Thank you so much for sharing – I’m gonna dig out can of chickpeas from the pantry this weekend and make this for the fiancé!
ImmaculateBites says
8 Apr, 2016 at 8:16 amGlad to know the step by step pictures really help. The fiance would love it!!!!
maria long says
7 Apr, 2016 at 4:42 pmI am totally up to trying new foods and I have never tried these before. Thanks for sharing the recipe and introducing me to this .
ImmaculateBites says
8 Apr, 2016 at 8:15 amMaria, you should it is really tasty.
CC says
30 Jun, 2018 at 8:07 pmHi @immaculateBites
I tried this down to the T… or so I thought. I didn’t take the temperature of the oil. I tried the sprinkle of water test. My doubles came out crispy! I timed it for the 30seconds that the recipe called for on each side. what do you think went wrong figured as soon as it
Kim @ Three Olives Branch says
7 Apr, 2016 at 3:54 pmThese look so good!!