Gujarati Khichu Recipe – Steamed Rice Flour Savory Donuts
Discover the delightful simplicity of Gujarati Khichu, a popular savory snack hailing from the vibrant culinary tradition of Gujarat. This quick and easy recipe yields soft, steamed rice flour donuts, spiced with cumin, carom seeds, green chilies, and ginger, making it the perfect light snack or breakfast option. Served hot, these fluffy treats are ideal with a cup of Masala Chai or as a comforting evening bite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 Cups |
| Rice flour | 1 Cup |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Green Chilies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1 inch piece |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Gujarati
Course: North Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Steamer
Begin by preheating a steamer. Fill the bottom of the steamer with water and set it aside while you prepare the Khichu dough. -
Prepare the Khichu Mixture
In a medium-sized pan, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil over medium heat. Add the ajwain (carom seeds), cumin seeds (jeera), chopped ginger, green chilies, and salt. Allow the mixture to come to a brisk boil. -
Add the Rice Flour
Once the water is boiling, quickly scatter 1 cup of rice flour evenly over the surface of the water. Do not stir immediately; let the water rise and moisten the flour on its own. The rice flour will begin to soften and absorb the boiling water. -
Mix the Dough
Using the back of a wooden spoon or ladle, carefully stir the rice flour into the water. Be cautious not to splatter the hot water. Stir vigorously for about 1 minute, until the mixture starts coming together into a soft dough. -
Shape the Khichu
Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the dough into a bowl. Let it cool slightly until it is cool enough to handle but still warm. Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball, and then gently make an indent in the center, resembling a donut shape. -
Steam the Khichu
Carefully place each Khichu ball into the preheated steamer. Steam for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the Khichu is firm to the touch and fully cooked through. -
Serve
Once steamed, remove the Khichu from the steamer. Serve them hot as a healthy evening snack, either on their own or with a cup of Masala Chai for a truly delightful treat.
Serving Suggestions
Gujarati Khichu is a light, comforting snack that can be served as part of a breakfast spread or as a wholesome evening bite. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of Masala Chai, or enjoy it on its own as a filling yet low-calorie option. The spiced doughnuts are soft and warm, offering a delightful texture and flavor that is sure to please your tastebuds.
Tips
- Customization: You can adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or fewer green chilies.
- Steaming: Ensure that the steamer is adequately heated before placing the Khichu balls inside for optimal results.
- Storage: These Khichus are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a day. Reheat them in the steamer or microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Enjoy the wholesome goodness of Gujarati Khichu, a simple yet flavorful snack that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a snack to pair with tea, this recipe is a delicious choice that is sure to impress.
