Masala Peanuts

Looking for a delicious and spicy snack to enjoy with your evening tea? Masala peanuts are the perfect choice! This unique recipe combines the crunchiness of peanuts with a flavorful blend of spices, creating a irresistible snack that's sure to become a favorite. With its crispy texture and bold flavor, masala peanuts are the ideal snack for any occasion. So, let's get started and learn how to make these tasty treats!

What Is Masala Peanuts?

• Masala peanuts are a delicious and popular Indian snack made by coating peanuts with a flavorful blend of chickpeas flour, rice flour, and a variety of Indian spices. This crunchy and savory snack is perfect for satisfying those mid-day cravings or serving as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• The combination of succulent peanuts with the unique seasoning of asafoetida powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder creates a flavor explosion that is sure to please the taste buds of anyone who tries it. Whether you enjoy them as a crunchy snack on their own or paired with a cup of masala chai, masala peanuts are a must-try for anyone who loves Indian cuisine.

Why You'll Love Masala Peanuts?

• Crunchy Texture: Masala peanuts are not just flavorful, but they also offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. The combination of the crispy coating and the nutty texture of the peanuts makes them an addictive snack.
• Healthy Protein: Peanuts are a great source of protein, making them a nutritious option for snacking. They provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Spices for Flavor: The blend of spices used in masala peanuts not only adds a burst of flavor but also offers potential health benefits. Ingredients like red chili powder and cumin powder are known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Low Carb Snack: With chickpeas flour and rice flour as the coating, masala peanuts make for a low-carb snack option. They are suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
• Rich in Nutrients: Peanuts are also a good source of essential nutrients like magnesium, phosphorus, and niacin. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being.
• Perfect Party Snack: Whether it's a game night or a movie marathon, masala peanuts are a crowd-pleaser. They are easy to make in large batches and are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients for Masala Peanuts

• Peanuts: Peanuts are the main ingredient in this recipe, providing a crunch and nutty flavor to the masala peanuts.
• Chickpea Flour: Also known as besan, chickpea flour helps in binding the masala and giving a crispy texture to the peanuts.
• Rice Flour: Rice flour adds a light and crispy coating to the peanuts, making them extra crunchy.
• Red Chili Powder: Red chili powder adds a spicy and flavorful kick to the masala peanuts.
• Asafoetida Powder: Asafoetida powder, also known as hing, enhances the flavor of the masala and aids in digestion.
• Cumin Powder: Cumin powder adds a warm and earthy flavor to the masala peanuts, complementing the other spices.

How To Make Masala Peanuts?

To make delicious masala peanuts, follow these simple steps for a flavorful experience:

• Begin by microwaving the peanuts for 1 and 1/2 minutes, and also heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
• In a bowl, combine chickpeas flour, rice flour, red chili powder, asafoetida powder, cumin powder, crushed garlic, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
• Sprinkle water over the peanuts and mix well to coat the peanuts with the masala mixture. Be mindful not to add too much water, as 3 and 1/2 tablespoons should be enough.
• Once the peanuts are coated, deep fry them in batches until golden brown and crunchy. Be sure to fry until the bubbles cease and then place them on a kitchen towel to absorb the excess oil.
• Don't forget to fry some curry leaves in the oil until crispy and add them to the fried peanuts for an extra burst of flavor.

By following these steps, you'll create perfectly seasoned and crunchy masala peanuts that are perfect for snacking or entertaining. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Masala Peanuts with Chai: Pair these spicy and crunchy masala peanuts with a hot cup of chai for a perfect evening snack. The combination of the spicy peanuts and the soothing chai makes for a delightful experience.
• Masala Peanuts with Beer: These masala peanuts make a great accompaniment to a cold beer. The spicy flavors of the peanuts complement the bitterness of the beer, making it an ideal snack for social gatherings or game nights.
• Masala Peanuts with Yogurt Dip: Serve the masala peanuts with a side of creamy yogurt dip. The coolness of the yogurt balances the heat of the peanuts, creating a delicious contrast of flavors and textures.
• Masala Peanuts with Fresh Salad: Add a handful of masala peanuts to a fresh, crunchy salad for an extra burst of flavor. The peanuts add a spicy kick to the salad, making it more exciting and satisfying.
• Masala Peanuts with Lemonade: Enjoy the masala peanuts with a refreshing glass of lemonade. The tangy sweetness of the lemonade complements the spicy peanuts, creating a wonderful taste sensation.
• Masala Peanuts with Tomato Salsa: Pair the masala peanuts with zesty tomato salsa for a burst of flavors. The combination of the spicy peanuts and tangy salsa is a sure crowd pleaser at any party or gathering.

Tips for Making Delicious Masala Peanuts

Furthermore, I would like to share some of my suggestions for making masala peanuts.

• Firstly, try to buy good quality of peanuts.
• Secondly, I would recommend you to add more crushed garlic with skin, because those fried up garlic gives more flavor to masala peanuts and they taste so yummy.
• Finally, sprinkle little water (3&1/2 tbsp of water is enough)and mix well until each peanut is coated well with the masala.
• Cooking Techniques: Microwaving the peanuts before frying helps to make them crispy. When deep frying the peanuts, make sure the oil is heated to the right temperature before adding the peanuts to ensure they cook evenly and become crunchy.
• Importance of Garnishing: Garnishing with crispy fried curry leaves not only adds a pop of color to the masala peanuts but also enhances the overall flavor and presentation of the dish.
• Even Coating of Masala: It's important to sprinkle water in small amounts and mix well to ensure that each peanut is coated evenly with the masala. This will ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Careful with Water: Be cautious when adding water to the peanuts and flour mixture. Adding too much water can make the coating soggy, while too little water can result in an uneven coating. The right amount is essential for the perfect texture.
• Draining Excess Oil: After deep frying, place the masala peanuts on a kitchen towel to drain the excess oil. This not only reduces the greasiness but also helps the peanuts to retain their crunchiness.

By following these tips, you can make irresistibly delicious masala peanuts that are perfectly seasoned, crispy, and loaded with flavor!

Variations for Masala Peanuts

• Spicy Twist: For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Nutty Flavors: Experiment with different types of nuts such as cashews, almonds, or even mixed nuts to create a unique blend of flavors and textures.
• Tangy Touch: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of chaat masala for a tangy and refreshing flavor profile.
• Sweet and Spicy: For a sweet and spicy combination, add a pinch of sugar or honey to the masala mixture before coating the peanuts.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary for an herby twist to the traditional masala peanuts.
• Healthy Options: To make a healthier version, consider baking the masala coated peanuts in the oven instead of deep frying for a lighter alternative.

How to Store Masala Peanuts

• Store in an airtight container: Once the masala peanuts have cooled down completely, transfer them to an airtight container. This will help maintain their crispiness and prevent them from becoming stale.
• Keep away from moisture: It's important to store masala peanuts in a dry place to prevent them from losing their crunchiness. Avoid storing them in a location where they might be exposed to moisture.
• Use silica gel packets: Placing a few silica gel packets inside the container can help absorb any excess moisture and keep the masala peanuts crispy for a longer period.
• Refrigerate for longer shelf life: If you want to extend the shelf life of masala peanuts, consider storing them in the refrigerator. This will help prevent them from turning rancid and maintain their freshness for a longer time.
• Separate from other foods: To prevent the masala peanuts from absorbing any unwanted odors or flavors, store them separately from other strong-smelling foods.
• Consume within a reasonable time frame: While masala peanuts can be stored for a few weeks, it's best to consume them within a reasonable time frame to enjoy them at their best quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make masala peanuts without deep frying?

• Yes, you can make masala peanuts without deep frying by using an air fryer or baking them in the oven. Simply coat the masala coated peanuts with some oil and place them in the air fryer or oven until they become crispy and golden brown.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the masala peanuts?

• Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the masala peanuts by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder according to your preference. You can also add some additional spices like black pepper or paprika for extra flavor.

Can I store masala peanuts for a long time?

• Yes, you can store masala peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks. Make sure they have completely cooled down before storing them to maintain their crunchiness.

Can I use a different type of flour for coating the peanuts?

• Yes, you can use a different type of flour for coating the peanuts, such as besan (gram flour) or corn flour, if you prefer or have dietary restrictions. It may change the texture and flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I omit the garlic from the recipe?

• Yes, if you're not a fan of garlic, you can omit it from the recipe without affecting the overall taste too much. You can also experiment with adding other spices or herbs for a different flavor profile.

Can I make masala peanuts with different nuts?

• Yes, you can make masala peanuts with different nuts such as cashews, almonds, or walnuts, using the same masala coating and frying method. It's a great way to mix it up and create a variety of spiced nuts.

Recipe Card

Masala Peanuts

Masala Peanuts  2017-02-27 08:01:25

Serves 5    

Prep Time   00:10        

Cook Time   00:15        

Total Time   00:25                      

Ingredients

• 250 grams peanuts
• 1/2 cup chickpeas flour
• 1/4 cup rice flour
• 2 tsp red chili powder
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida powder
• 1/4 tsp cumin powder
• 4 garlic pods
• 3/4 tsp salt or to taste
• 5 tbsp of water, divided
• few curry leaves
• oil to fry          

Instructions

• Firstly, crush the garlic pods along with the skin, roughly.
• Then place the peanuts in a microwave plate and microwave it on high for 1 and 1/2 mins.
• Meanwhile, heat a pan with enough oil to fry the peanuts, over medium heat
• In a wide bowl, combine chickpeas flour, rice flour, red chili powder, asafoetida powder, cumin powder, crushed garlic, and salt, mix it well until incorporated.
• Sprinkle 1&1/2 tbsp of water over the peanuts and mix well, so that the masala gets coated in the peanuts well and makes them separate.
• Then add the wet peanuts to the flour and mix it thoroughly.
• Sprinkle some water and mix well until each peanut is coated well with the masala.
• But while adding water, take care not to add more.  Only 3&1/2 tbsp of water is enough.
• Once the oil is heated, deep fry the masala coated peanuts in hot oil in batches and deep fry until it becomes golden brown and crunchy.
• Fry till bubbles cease and place it on a kitchen towel to observe the excess oil.
• Do the same process for the remaining peanuts also.
• Wash and pat dry curry leaves and fry them in the oil till it becomes crispy and finally, add it to the fried peanuts.         

By Santhi Therese    The Indian Claypot

https://theindianclaypot.com/