Authentic Gujarati Chevdo Recipe: A Savory Snack Delight

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of puffed rice
  • 1 cup of thin flattened rice
  • 1 cup of broad beans
  • 1 cup of peanuts
  • 1/2 cup of cashew nuts
  • 2 tablespoons of raisins
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
  • 10-12 curry leaves
  • 2 green chilies
  • 1/2 teaspoon of asafoetida

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
  3. Add the asafoetida, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
  4. Add the peanuts and cashew nuts to the pan and roast them until they turn slightly brown.
  5. Add the broad beans and sauté until they become crispy.
  6. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  7. Add the thin flattened rice to the pan and roast for about 2 minutes or until crispy.
  8. Add the puffed rice to the pan and roast for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
  9. Add the raisins and mix well.
  10. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
  11. Store the Chevdo in an airtight container for up to a month.

Tools for making

  • Large Pan - A pan large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for easy stirring.
  • Spatula - A utensil for mixing and stirring the ingredients in the pan.
  • Measuring Cups - Cups specifically for accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - Spoons specifically for accurately measuring the spices and salt.
  • Airtight Container - A container with a tight seal to store the Chevdo and keep it fresh.

Recipe variations

  • Add roasted chickpeas or lentils for extra crunch.
  • Include roasted sesame seeds or flaxseeds for added flavor and nutritional benefits.
  • Experiment with different spices like cumin, coriander, or garam masala for unique flavors.
  • Add dried coconut flakes or chips for a tropical twist.
  • Try using different types of nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
  • For a spicy kick, add finely chopped fresh ginger or garlic.
  • Include dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or mango for a hint of sweetness.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace the flattened rice with quinoa flakes or rice flakes.
  • Make it vegan by using coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.
  • Experiment with different ratios of spices to make it more or less spicy according to your preference.

Recipe overview

Chevdo, often referred to as Chivda, is a popular Indian snack known for its delightful mix of flavors. It's a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and spicy, with a delightful crunch that comes from a variety of ingredients such as puffed rice, flattened rice, peanuts, and cashew nuts. This recipe also includes broad beans and raisins for an added dimension of flavor and texture. It's simple to prepare and can be stored for up to a month, making it a fantastic snack to have on hand for unexpected guests or a quick mid-afternoon nibble. With our step-by-step guide, you'll master this deliciously versatile snack in no time. Enjoy the process and the mouth-watering result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use any other type of rice instead of thin flattened rice?
    Yes, you can use thick flattened rice (poha) instead of thin flattened rice. However, the texture of the Chevdo may differ slightly.
  2. Can I add other ingredients to the Chevdo?
    Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding ingredients like roasted gram dal (chana dal), curry powder, or dried coconut flakes.
  3. Can I make Chevdo in advance?
    Yes, you can make Chevdo in advance. It stays fresh and crispy for up to a month when stored in an airtight container.
  4. Can I reduce the amount of spice?
    Yes, you can adjust the amount of turmeric powder and red chili powder according to your taste preferences.
  5. Can I use any other type of oil for cooking?
    Yes, you can use any mild-flavored vegetable oil or even canola oil for cooking the Chevdo.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - Used to mix the ingredients together.
  • Large Pan - Used to roast and sauté the various ingredients.
  • Spatula - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Airtight Container - Used to store the Chevdo after it is prepared.
  • Measuring Cups - Used to measure the ingredients accurately.

Origin stories

Chevdo, also known as Chivda, is a delightful snack that originates from the Indian subcontinent, primarily popular in the western part of India, Maharashtra. Its origins can be traced back to the rich tradition of 'nashta' or evening snacks, a practice deeply engrained in the Indian culture. What sets Chevdo apart is its splendid interplay of flavors - the crunch of puffed rice and nuts, the spice from chilies, the sweet hint of raisins, all tossed together in a hot wok. Each component tells a tale of the vast produce of the Indian land, reflecting the country's agricultural richness. The unique aspect of Chevdo is that, while it is a common household snack enjoyed with a hot cup of tea, it also holds a special place in the assortment of sweets and snacks exchanged during Indian festivals, particularly Diwali, the festival of lights. Thus, Chevdo, in its simplicity, encapsulates the essence of Indian hospitality and the joy of sharing.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.