Traditional Gujarati Mathiya Recipe for Diwali

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Urad Dal Flour
  • 1/2 cup Maida (All-Purpose Flour)
  • 1/2 cup Suji (Semolina)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 1/2 cup Curd (Yogurt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 cup Warm Water
  • 1/4 cup Ghee (Clarified Butter)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ajwain (Carom Seeds)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Chilli Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar
  • Oil, for deep frying

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Urad Dal flour, Maida, Suji, Baking Soda, Salt, Ajwain, Turmeric Powder, Red Chilli Powder, and Sugar.
  2. Add the Curd and Ghee to the mixing bowl and mix everything together.
  3. Slowly add the Warm Water while continuously stirring the mixture until you have a firm dough. The consistency should be similar to that of a roti dough.
  4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and leave it to rest for 30 minutes.
  5. After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions and roll each portion into a thin disc shape.
  6. Heat the Oil for frying in a deep pan over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it comes up quickly, the oil is ready.
  7. Deep fry the Mathiyas in batches, flipping them occasionally until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove the fried Mathiyas with a slotted spoon and place them on kitchen paper to drain excess oil.
  9. Allow the Mathiyas to cool down completely before serving or storing them in an airtight container.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll the dough into thin discs.
  • Deep Pan - A pan with high sides for deep frying the Mathiyas.
  • Slotted Spoon - Used to remove the fried Mathiyas from the oil.
  • Kitchen Paper - Paper towels or napkins to absorb excess oil from the fried Mathiyas.

Recipe variations

  • Replace Urad Dal flour with Besan (Chickpea Flour) for a different flavor.
  • Add spices such as Cumin Powder, Coriander Powder, or Garam Masala to the dough for added flavor.
  • Add finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint leaves to the dough for a refreshing twist.
  • For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour instead of Maida (All-Purpose Flour).
  • Add grated cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, to the dough for a cheesy variation.
  • Make a spicier version by increasing the amount of Red Chilli Powder or adding chopped green chilies.
  • For a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free flours such as rice flour or almond flour.
  • Experiment with different shapes and sizes for the Mathiyas, such as small squares or triangles.
  • Add roasted sesame seeds or crushed black pepper to the dough for added texture and flavor.
  • Replace the deep-frying method with baking the Mathiyas in the oven for a healthier option.

Recipe overview

Mathiya is a crispy and delicious deep-fried snack that originates from the Indian state of Gujarat. Traditionally enjoyed during the festival of Diwali, this snack makes a great tea-time treat too. Made with a blend of Urad Dal flour, Maida, Suji, and a mix of spices, Mathiya has a distinct and delightful flavor that will have you reaching for more. The recipe involves preparing a firm dough, rolling it out into thin discs, and then deep frying until golden and crispy. This recipe guide will walk you through the process, step by step, to help you create perfect Mathiyas at home. Do note that, after frying, Mathiyas need to be cooled down completely before serving or storage to maintain their crispness. Enjoy the process and the result – a batch of mouthwatering Mathiyas.

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole urad dal instead of urad dal flour? No, for this recipe, it is best to use urad dal flour. Whole urad dal will not give the same texture and consistency.
  2. Can I substitute ghee with oil? While ghee adds a unique flavor to Mathiya, you can substitute it with oil if desired. However, the taste may slightly differ.
  3. Can I skip adding red chilli powder? Yes, if you prefer a milder version, you can skip adding red chilli powder. Adjust the spices according to your taste.
  4. How do I store Mathiya? Once the Mathiyas have cooled down completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for up to two weeks.
  5. Can I make Mathiyas ahead of time? Yes, Mathiyas can be made ahead of time. Prepare and fry them as per the instructions, then store them in an airtight container once they cool down. They will remain crispy for several days.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll the dough into thin discs.
  • Deep Pan - Used for deep frying the Mathiyas.
  • Slotted Spoon - Helps in removing the fried Mathiyas from the oil.
  • Kitchen Paper - Used to drain excess oil from the fried Mathiyas.
  • Damp Cloth - Used to cover the dough and keep it moist while resting.

Origin stories

Mathiya, a delectable crispy snack, is traditionally associated with the festival of Diwali, the Indian festival of lights. This snack holds an esteemed place among the myriad culinary delights that grace the festive spread during Diwali celebrations. Originating from the vibrant state of Gujarat, Mathiya is not just a food item but a reflection of the region's culture and traditions. Gujaratis are known for their sweet tooth, and Mathiya perfectly captures this characteristic with its delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors. The process of preparing Mathiya is as joyous as the festival itself. Family members come together in the kitchen, rolling out and deep frying these thin disc-shaped delights, filling the home with warmth and the mouthwatering aroma of frying Mathiyas. This act of communal cooking is an integral part of the festival, as it brings families closer and adds an extra layer of love to the food.

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.