Aval Mixture Recipe – Poha Chivda
Poha Chivda, also known as Aval Mixture, is a crunchy, flavorful snack that is a favorite in many Indian households, especially during festive occasions. This North Indian snack is a perfect combination of poha (flattened rice), spices, and fried ingredients, making it a delightful treat for your guests. The recipe is quick to prepare, and it can be enjoyed with a hot cup of Masala Chai or Kesari Gujiya. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying it during festivals, Poha Chivda adds a touch of warmth and spice to any occasion.
Ingredients for Aval Mixture (Poha Chivda)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened rice) | 2 cups |
| Red khara sev | 1/2 cup |
| Boondi | 1/2 cup |
| Roasted Peanuts (Moongphali) | 1/4 cup |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/4 cup, roasted |
| Curry leaves | 20 leaves |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | For deep frying |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Cuisine
North Indian – This snack is typically enjoyed across the northern regions of India and is widely loved for its crunchy texture and spice.
Course
Snack – A perfect tea-time snack or festive treat to serve your guests.
Diet
Vegetarian – This dish is suitable for vegetarians and is packed with flavor without any animal products.
Instructions for Aval Mixture (Poha Chivda)
-
Frying the Poha:
Begin by heating sunflower oil in a small wok or kadhai. Place the poha in a medium-sized sieve with a handle. Carefully dip this sieve into the hot oil. When the poha starts to sizzle, remove it from the oil, letting the excess oil drain away. Place the poha on absorbent paper to soak up any remaining oil. Repeat this process in batches, frying 1/2 cup of poha at a time. -
Frying the Ingredients:
In the same hot oil, fry the roasted groundnuts, chana dal, and curry leaves separately. Make sure to drain each ingredient on absorbent paper to remove excess oil. -
Preparing the Spice Mix:
Once all the frying is done, remove the oil from the heat. Keep 1 tablespoon of oil in the wok, discarding the rest. Add the asafoetida (hing), turmeric powder (haldi), and red chili powder to the hot oil. Stir well and let the spices bloom in the hot oil for a few seconds. Pour this fragrant spice mix over the fried poha. -
Combining the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the fried poha, groundnuts, roasted chana dal, fried curry leaves, red khara sev, and boondi. Toss everything gently to mix the ingredients together, ensuring that the spices are well distributed. -
Final Touch:
Add salt to taste and give it one last toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. -
Cooling and Storing:
Let the Aval Mixture cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container. This snack can stay fresh for several days, making it a perfect option for preparing ahead of time. -
Serving Suggestions:
Poha Chivda can be served as a standalone snack, or alongside Kesari Gujiya (a traditional sweet) and a cup of Masala Chai for a delightful tea-time experience. It’s a great addition to festive spreads or as a snack to enjoy while watching a movie.
Tips for Perfect Aval Mixture
- Fry in batches: Fry the poha in small batches to avoid overcrowding the oil, ensuring each batch gets crispy and golden.
- Adjust spice levels: You can adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your preference for spiciness.
- Crispiness is key: The key to a perfect Aval Mixture is crispy poha. Fry the poha just long enough for it to sizzle and puff up before removing it from the oil.
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite roasted nuts, such as cashews or almonds, for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 4g |
Conclusion
Aval Mixture, or Poha Chivda, is a timeless Indian snack that beautifully balances savory, spicy, and crunchy flavors. Its versatility makes it perfect for festive occasions, casual tea-time snacks, or even as a gift for friends and family. The combination of poha, nuts, and spices is not only delicious but also nutritious. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, Poha Chivda is sure to become a favorite in your snack repertoire.
Serve this delightful snack at your next gathering, or enjoy it during your next festival – either way, Aval Mixture will leave everyone asking for more!
