Timepass Munchies: Let’s Make Chatpata Masala Peanuts, Yaar!
Namaste Dosto! Kem cho? Assalamualaikum! Sat Sri Akal! Chef Curry Do’pyaza here, ready to spice up your life, one peanut at a time!
How are you all doing? Today, we’re diving headfirst into a snack that’s as addictive as your favourite Bollywood song: Masala Peanuts! These crunchy, spicy, tangy little nuggets are the perfect timepass (leisure activity) munchies. They are perfect for chai time, movie nights, or just when you need a little chatpata (spicy and tangy) kick.
Occasions to Celebrate with Masala Peanuts:
Masala Peanuts are a common sight during Diwali celebrations, Holi parties, and even casual get-togethers with friends. They’re especially popular during the monsoon season when a hot cup of chai and a bowl of these peanuts are all you need to make the day brighter. They’re also a staple at Indian weddings as part of the snack spread!
A Little History (Peanut Edition):
While peanuts themselves aren’t originally from India, they’ve been embraced into our cuisine with open arms (and mouths!). The concept of roasting and spicing peanuts has been around for ages, with different regions adding their own unique twists. This particular Masala Peanut recipe is a culmination of all the best flavours, perfected over generations.
Ready to get cooking? Let’s go!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients (The Spice Brigade):
- 2 cups Moongphali (Raw Peanuts)
- 2 tablespoons Besan (Gram Flour)
- 1 tablespoon Chawal ka Atta (Rice Flour)
- 1 teaspoon Lal Mirch Powder (Red Chilli Powder) – Adjust to your spice preference!
- ½ teaspoon Haldi Powder (Turmeric Powder)
- 1 teaspoon Amchur Powder (Dry Mango Powder)
- ½ teaspoon Jeera Powder (Cumin Powder)
- ½ teaspoon Dhaniya Powder (Coriander Powder)
- ½ teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Adrak-Lahsun Paste (Ginger-Garlic Paste)
- 1 tablespoon Tel (Cooking Oil)
- Namak (Salt) to taste
- A pinch of Hing (Asafoetida) – Optional, but adds a lovely flavour!
Let’s Get Cooking (Step-by-Step):
- Peanut Prep: In a large bowl, add the moongphali (peanuts).
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Spice Up: Add the besan (gram flour), chawal ka atta (rice flour), lal mirch powder (red chilli powder), haldi powder (turmeric powder), amchur powder (dry mango powder), jeera powder (cumin powder), dhaniya powder (coriander powder), garam masala, adrak-lahsun paste (ginger-garlic paste), hing (asafoetida) and namak (salt) to the bowl of peanuts.
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Mix Well: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that each peanut is coated with the flavourful spice mixture.
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Oil Massage: Add the tel (oil) to the mixture and mix again. The oil helps the spices stick and gives the peanuts a beautiful, crispy texture.
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Roast Time (Gas Stove Method): Heat a heavy-bottomed kadai (wok) or pan over medium heat. Add the spiced peanuts and roast them, stirring constantly, until they are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Be patient, yaar! Don’t burn them!
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Cool Down: Once roasted, remove the peanuts from the pan and spread them on a plate to cool completely. This will help them become even crispier.
Tips for the Best Masala Peanuts:
- Low and Slow: Roast the peanuts on medium-low heat to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn.
- Constant Stirring: Keep stirring constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even roasting.
- Fresh Spices: Use fresh, high-quality spices for the best flavour.
- Taste Test: Adjust the amount of red chilli powder and salt according to your taste.
Different Ways to Cook Masala Peanuts:
- Induction Stove: Follow the same instructions as the gas stove method, adjusting the heat settings as needed.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the spiced peanuts on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the spiced peanuts in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Microwave: This method is not recommended as the peanuts can easily burn.
- Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Crockpot: These methods are not suitable for this recipe.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy them as a standalone snack with a cup of chai (tea) or coffee.
- Serve them as a side dish with your favourite Indian meal.
- Sprinkle them on top of salads or chaats for a crunchy, spicy topping.
- Pack them in your lunchbox for a quick and satisfying snack.
So there you have it, folks! My super easy and delicious Masala Peanut recipe. Now, go ahead and try this recipe at home. I am sure you will enjoy it. Share it with your friends and family. They will love you for it!
Until next time, happy cooking!
Your friend,
Chef Curry Do’pyaza