Authentic Indian Chivda Recipe: A Deliciously Crunchy Snack

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Flattened Rice (Poha)
  • 1/2 cup of Roasted Peanuts
  • 1/4 cup of Roasted Gram Dal
  • 1/4 cup of Dried Coconut strips
  • 10-12 Curry Leaves
  • 2-3 Green Chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of Mustard Seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
  • 1 teaspoon of Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of Salt
  • 1/4 cup of Raisins
  • 3 tablespoons of Cooking Oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat a large pan on medium heat. Add the Flattened Rice (Poha) to the pan and roast it while stirring continuously until it becomes crispy. Remove the Poha and set it aside.
  2. In the same pan, heat the Cooking Oil. Add the Mustard Seeds and wait until they start to splutter.
  3. Add the Curry Leaves and Green Chilies to the pan. Fry them until they become crispy.
  4. Add the Turmeric Powder to the pan and stir well.
  5. Add the Roasted Gram Dal, Dried Coconut strips, and Roasted Peanuts to the pan. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.
  6. Add the Sugar and Salt to the pan and mix well.
  7. Return the roasted Poha to the pan and mix everything together. Cook for another couple of minutes while stirring continuously.
  8. Turn off the heat and add the Raisins. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  9. Allow the Chivda to cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.

Tools for making

  • Large Pan - to roast the Flattened Rice (Poha) and cook the Chivda
  • Cooking Oil - to fry the ingredients and prevent sticking
  • Spatula - for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan
  • Cutting Board - to chop the Green Chilies and Curry Leaves
  • Knife - for cutting the Green Chilies and Curry Leaves
  • Measuring Cups - to accurately measure the ingredients
  • Airtight Container - for storing the prepared Chivda

Recipe variations

  • Add roasted Cashews or Almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Include roasted Sesame Seeds for a nutty taste.
  • You can add some roasted Cumin Seeds or Coriander Seeds for an aromatic twist.
  • For a spicy kick, add Red Chili Powder or Paprika.
  • Include some roasted Gram Flour (Besan) to enhance the texture.
  • Add a handful of roasted Sunflower Seeds or Pumpkin Seeds for added nutrition.
  • For a touch of sweetness, sprinkle some powdered Jaggery or Brown Sugar.
  • Add some dried Cranberries or chopped dried Apricots for a fruity twist.
  • Include a pinch of Asafoetida (Hing) for a unique flavor.
  • For a smoky taste, add a teaspoon of Roasted Cumin Powder.

Recipe overview

Chivda is a light, crispy, and popular Indian snack made from flattened rice, nuts, and spices. This recipe will guide you through the process of making Chivda at home, offering a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought snacks. Expect a flavorful mix of sweet, salty, and spicy notes that make Chivda a perfect tea-time accompaniment or anytime snack. The recipe is straightforward and requires simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. It involves roasting the flattened rice to give it a delightful crunch, then adding the nuts and spices for their rich, savory flavor. Finally, raisins are added for a hint of sweetness that balances the overall taste. The Chivda can be stored in an airtight container for future snacking. Once you try this homemade Chivda recipe, you'll never go back to the store-bought version!

Common questions

  1. Can I use thick poha instead of flattened rice?
  2. Yes, you can use thick poha instead of flattened rice. However, the texture and cooking time may vary slightly.
  3. Can I skip adding raisins?
  4. Yes, you can skip adding raisins if you prefer. It won't significantly affect the overall taste and texture of the chivda.
  5. Can I use oil other than cooking oil?
  6. Yes, you can use any neutral-flavored cooking oil of your choice. Examples include vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil.
  7. How long does the chivda stay fresh?
  8. When stored in an airtight container, chivda can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
  9. Can I add other ingredients like cashews or spices?
  10. Absolutely! Chivda is a versatile snack, so feel free to customize it by adding ingredients like cashews, almonds, or your favorite spices.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A bowl to mix all the ingredients together.
  • Large Pan - A pan to roast the Flattened Rice (Poha) and fry the other ingredients.
  • Cooking Spoon - A spoon to stir and mix the ingredients while cooking.
  • Airtight Container - A container to store the Chivda after it has cooled down.

Origin stories

Chivda, a popular snack in India, has its roots in the Western state of Maharashtra. It's a quintessential part of Diwali celebrations and is often homemade during this festive season. The snack's charm lies in its simplicity and versatility - every household has its unique version, with variations ranging from sweet to spicy. What's interesting is that Chivda is not just a festive treat but also a preferred snack during tea time, travel, or just for munching. It's a delightful irony that this humble, unassuming dish, typically prepared in Indian kitchens using ingredients readily available at home, has crossed borders and is savoured and loved globally. Truly, Chivda captures the essence of Indian cuisine - diverse, flavorful, and full of surprises.

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.