Peanut Masala Recipe – Crispy, Spicy, and Delicious

Peanut Masala Recipe

Peanut Masala is a popular Indian snack featuring spicy, crispy peanuts coated with a flavorful masala mix. Here is a comprehensive recipe based on common traditional methods:

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw peanuts

• 1/4 cup gram flour (besan)

• 2 tablespoons rice flour (or corn starch)

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (Kashmiri red chili powder preferred)

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala or dry mango powder (amchur)

• 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional)

• 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste (or 1/4 tsp each ginger and garlic powder)

• 1/2 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)

• 1 sprig curry leaves or finely chopped mint leaves

• 1/3 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon oil (plus oil for deep frying)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, rice flour, red chili powder, garam masala, chaat masala, turmeric, ginger garlic paste, ajwain, salt, and curry leaves. Mix well.

2. Add the raw peanuts to the spice mixture and toss to coat evenly.

3. Add 1 tablespoon oil and mix again to help the spices stick to the peanuts.

4. Add water gradually (about 2 tablespoons) to make a thick batter that coats the peanuts well. Mix thoroughly.

5. Let the coated peanuts rest for 5-10 minutes so the spices absorb.

6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.

7. Fry the peanuts in batches on low to medium flame, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and crisp and the oil foams disappear.

8. Remove the peanuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

9. Optionally, sprinkle some extra chaat masala for enhanced flavor.

10. Let cool completely before serving.

Serving

Peanut Masala can be enjoyed as a crunchy snack on its own or served with tea. It is best stored in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

This recipe is similar to the versions from IndianHealthyRecipes, DineDelicious, and HebbarsKitchen, which emphasize a gram flour coating and deep frying for a crispy texture. Variations include baking instead of frying for a healthier option.

Quick Peanut Masala Chaat Variation

For a fresh, tangy peanut masala chaat, mix roasted peanuts with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, chaat masala, cumin powder, and salt. Serve immediately for a zesty snack.

This version does not require frying and is a quick assembly of ingredients for a flavorful street-food style snack.

This combination of spicy, tangy, and crunchy elements makes Peanut Masala a beloved Indian snack enjoyed across households and gatherings.