Masala Peanuts

Masala Peanuts (Spicy Peanuts) is a zesty, spicy, tangy snack that falls in the cannot-stop-snacking-till-jar-is-empty category. Everyone loves peanuts in various ways and forms, but Masala Peanuts is my favorite peanut snack & is one of the most popular Indian snacks too. Making Masala Peanuts is really easy, the simple process of adding a blend of Indian spices to the peanuts results in a mouth-watering crunchy snack that is good for any occasion - tea-time, movies, on-the-go, between meals or even as a party starter. Masala Peanuts are also great as toppings on a number of popular Indian snacks - Bhel, Chaat, Ragda samosa and even on salads to add a zesty peppy taste.

If you are still not convinced (really?) about trying out these dark-brown gems solely on the basis of their deliciousness, the peanuts also provide tremendous health benefits - they are rich in proteins, are a good source of Vitamin E, reduce bad cholesterol, have anti-cancer effects and prevent aging. Hmm.. satisfy your snack cravings and stay young, sounds like a pretty good deal to me :) 

MASALA  PEANUTS  RECIPE

Ingredients:

1 cup raw Peanuts
3 cloves Garlic (optional); peeled, finely chopped & lightly crushed
3 tbsp Gram flour (Besan)
1 1/2 tbsp Rice flour
1 tsp Dry Mango Powder (Amchur)
Salt to taste
1 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Red chilli powder) or to taste
1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
1/2 tsp Garam Masala Powder
A pinch of Baking Soda
Oil for deep frying
1 tsp Chaat Masala or to taste
1 tbsp Water

How to make Masala Peanuts

1. In a large bowl, add peanuts. Sprinkle all the other ingredients (except chaat masala, oil & water) over the peanuts. Mix well.
2. Add water & mix well such that the peanuts are evenly coated with the sprinkled mixture.
3. Heat sufficient oil in a wok or pan on medium heat.
4. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the peanuts in batches (ensure that the peanuts are separated from each other while dropping them in the oil). Deep fry till the sizzling sound of the oil lessens. Drain on absorbent paper.
5. Sprinkle chaat masala. Mix well. Allow to cool to room temperature and then store in air tight container.
6. Enjoy with a cup of tea or your favorite beverage :)

Tips:

1. Adjust spices as per your taste.
2. Peanuts will fry very fast so remove them as soon as the sizzling sound lessens.