Maharashtrian Bhadang Recipe (Puffed Rice Snack Mix)
Bhadang is a quintessential Maharashtrian snack thatโs crunchy, spicy, and bursting with flavors. This puffed rice snack mix is a perfect accompaniment to your evening chai or as a standalone snack when you crave something light yet delicious. Packed with aromatic spices, roasted peanuts, and crispy puffed rice, this snack is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an authentic Maharashtrian Bhadang right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puffed rice | 3 cups |
| Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala | 2 tablespoons |
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) | 3 tablespoons |
| Curry leaves | 3 sprigs |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, ground into paste | 4 cloves |
| Sugar | 1 pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | 3 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | Variable |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and quantities used.
Preparation Time
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 5 minutes |
| Cooking | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
Servings
| Yield | 4 servings |
|---|
Cuisine
| Category | Maharashtrian Recipes |
|---|
Course
| Type | Snack |
|---|
Dietary Preferences
| Category | Vegetarian |
|---|
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step directions to prepare the Maharashtrian Bhadang Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Masala
- Begin by preparing the Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala. You can either follow a detailed recipe for this masala or use a pre-made blend if you have it on hand.
- Set the masala aside, as it forms the base flavor for the Bhadang.
Step 2: Roast the Peanuts
- Heat a kadai (Indian wok) over medium heat and add the sunflower oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the raw peanuts. Roast them until they turn light brown and release a nutty aroma. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3: Temper the Spices
- Add the curry leaves to the roasted peanuts. Stir until they crisp up slightly.
- Next, add the ground garlic paste, asafoetida (hing), and let it cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Masala
- Add the Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala, turmeric powder, sugar, and salt to the kadai.
- Mix well and allow the oil to absorb the spices, forming a cohesive masala paste. This step is crucial for an evenly spiced Bhadang.
Step 5: Add the Puffed Rice
- Lower the heat and add the puffed rice to the masala mixture.
- Gently toss the puffed rice to ensure each grain is coated with the spice blend. Be careful not to crush the puffed rice while mixing.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Once the puffed rice is thoroughly coated, turn off the heat.
- Let the Bhadang cool for a few minutes before transferring it to an airtight container.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the crispy and flavorful Bhadang with a steaming cup of chai. For an indulgent snack experience, pair it with hot pakodas or samosas.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala to suit your spice tolerance.
- Crunch Factor: You can add fried gram dal or roasted cashews for an extra crunch.
- Storage: Store the Bhadang in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crisp for up to a week.
- Healthier Version: Use minimal oil and opt for baked or air-fried peanuts for a healthier snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a tea-time snack, party appetizer, or even as a travel snack.
- Authentic Flavors: The Kolhapuri Khanda Lasun Masala brings a unique Maharashtrian touch to this beloved snack.
Craft this delicious Maharashtrian Bhadang today and bring the authentic flavors of Maharashtra to your home. Whether itโs for a cozy evening or a festive gathering, this snack is sure to win hearts with its irresistible taste and delightful crunch!
