Pappu Chekkalu Recipe – Andhra Style Spiced Rice Crackers
If you love savory, crispy, and subtly spiced snacks, then Pappu Chekkalu, or Andhra Style Spiced Rice Crackers, will quickly become your go-to treat. A popular snack from the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, these crunchy delights are made with a combination of rice flour, chana dal (Bengal gram), roasted peanuts, green chilies, and a dash of ginger—creating a perfect harmony of flavor and texture. Traditionally deep-fried to golden perfection, Pappu Chekkalu is perfect as an accompaniment to a hot cup of tea or a festive snack during celebrations like Diwali.
Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that captures the authentic taste of Andhra cuisine, delivering the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and savory goodness.
Ingredients for Pappu Chekkalu
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rice flour | 1 cup | Base of the dough |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 2 tbsp | Soaked for 30 minutes |
| Roasted peanuts (Moongphali) | 2 tbsp | Coarsely pounded |
| Green chilies | 2, finely chopped | Adjust based on spice preference |
| Fresh ginger | 1-inch piece, grated | Adds a fragrant, spicy note |
| Sunflower oil | 2 tbsp (and extra for deep frying) | Used for the dough and frying |
| Curry leaves | 10, finely chopped | Adds a subtle aroma |
| Salt | To taste | For seasoning |
Preparation Time
| Category | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 60 minutes |
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: Andhra (South Indian)
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pappu Chekkalu
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Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all the ingredients for Pappu Chekkalu. This step ensures that you have everything ready and makes the cooking process much smoother. -
Make the Green Chili-Ginger Paste
Using a mortar and pestle, pound the green chilies and ginger together to form a fine paste. This paste will infuse the crackers with a delightful, spicy aroma. -
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, soaked chana dal, coarsely pounded roasted peanuts, curry leaves, and salt. Add the green chili-ginger paste and sunflower oil. Mix these ingredients well.Slowly add a little water at a time and knead the mixture into a firm dough. The consistency should be such that when you take a small portion of the dough and press it in your palms, it should hold its shape without crumbling.
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Rest the Dough
Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes while you heat the oil for frying. -
Heat the Oil
In a deep, heavy-bottomed pan, heat sunflower oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the Chekkalu but not smoking. -
Shape the Chekkalu
Grease your palms and fingers lightly with oil. Take small portions of the dough and shape them into small discs (approximately 2-3 inches in diameter). Flatten each portion evenly with your fingers to form thin, round crackers. -
Fry the Chekkalu
Carefully slide the prepared discs into the hot oil. Fry the Chekkalu in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook on medium heat until they turn golden brown and crisp, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes per batch. Keep flipping them gently to ensure even frying. -
Drain and Cool
Once the Chekkalu is golden and crisp, remove them from the oil and drain excess oil by placing them on paper towels. Let them cool completely. This will help them firm up and become extra crunchy. -
Storage and Serving
Once cooled, store the Pappu Chekkalu in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. These crackers stay fresh for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead snack.
Serving Suggestions
- Tea Time Snack: Serve your homemade Pappu Chekkalu with a hot cup of masala chai or filter coffee. The spicy crunch pairs beautifully with the warm, comforting beverage.
- Festival Treat: This traditional Andhra snack is a favorite during festivals like Diwali. Prepare these crispy crackers in large batches to share with family and friends.
- On-the-Go Snack: Pack Pappu Chekkalu in snack boxes for a tasty and filling mid-day treat.
Tips for the Perfect Pappu Chekkalu
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Consistency of Dough: The dough should not be too soft or too hard. It should hold its shape when pressed between your palms. If it’s too sticky, add a little more rice flour; if too dry, add a few drops of water.
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Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the crackers will brown too quickly on the outside but remain uncooked on the inside. If it’s too cool, the crackers will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies based on your preference for spiciness. You can also add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) or cumin seeds for additional flavor.
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Flatter Discs for Crispy Texture: Flatten the discs as thin as possible for an extra crispy texture. The thinner the disc, the crunchier the Chekkalu will be.
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Storage Tip: For long-term storage, make sure the crackers are completely cool before storing them in airtight containers. If you live in a humid climate, you can also store them in a ziplock bag with a silica gel packet to maintain their crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on portion size and cooking methods.)
Pappu Chekkalu is a simple yet incredibly satisfying snack that brings the taste of Andhra Pradesh into your home. Its crispy texture and balanced flavors make it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re snacking in the afternoon or celebrating a festive moment, these spiced rice crackers are sure to please everyone!
