Papad Ki Churi, a delightful and crunchy snack, is a popular dish in Indian households, known for its simplicity and amazing flavor. This recipe uses the humble papad (papadum) as the base ingredient, turning it into a savory treat with an irresistible texture. Often served as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a quick snack, Papad Ki Churi is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4-5 Papads (preferably plain or seasoned papads like jeera or lal mirch)
- 2 tablespoons Ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2 teaspoon Asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Chaat masala
- 1 tablespoon Coriander leaves (fresh, chopped)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (optional)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped, optional)
- 1-2 Green chilies (finely chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Fry the Papads: Start by breaking the papads into smaller pieces. If you prefer a healthier version, you can roast them on a grill or in the microwave, but traditionally, they are deep-fried to make them extra crispy. Set them aside once fried or roasted.
- Prepare the Tempering: Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the ghee or oil is hot, add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Then add the asafoetida (hing) and let it sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add Spices: Add red chili powder and chaat masala to the pan. Stir for a few seconds to let the spices release their fragrance, but be careful not to burn them.
- Mix in Papad Pieces: Now, break the fried papad pieces into small, bite-sized bits and add them to the pan. Toss everything gently so the papad gets coated with the tempering and spices. Be careful not to crush the papad too much—just stir it to ensure even mixing.
- Add Onion and Chilies: If you like, add finely chopped onions and green chilies to the mixture. The crunch of the onions and the heat from the chilies adds an extra layer of flavor. Stir everything together.
- Finish with Fresh Coriander: Once everything is mixed, add chopped fresh coriander leaves. This gives the dish a burst of freshness that complements the spice and crunch perfectly.
- Optional Lemon Juice: For an added tangy twist, squeeze a little lemon juice over the dish just before serving.
- Serve: Papad Ki Churi is best served immediately, hot, and crispy. You can enjoy it as a standalone snack or pair it with a cool yogurt dip or chutney for an extra flavor boost.
Tips for a Perfect Papad Ki Churi
- Papad Selection: You can use different types of papads depending on your taste preference. Jeera or black pepper papads work especially well for this recipe.
- Oil vs Ghee: Ghee gives an extra rich flavor, but you can also use oil if you prefer a lighter version.
- Additions: Some people like to add a pinch of garam masala or crushed peanuts for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
- Customizations: If you enjoy sweeter flavors, you can sprinkle a little sugar or jaggery over the papad to balance the spice.
Variations of Papad Ki Churi
- With Boiled Potatoes: Adding boiled potatoes to the mix is a great way to make the dish more filling. Simply mash the potatoes and toss them with the papad mixture.
- With Yogurt: A refreshing twist is to top the Papad Ki Churi with a dollop of yogurt. It complements the spiciness and adds creaminess to the crunch.
Why You’ll Love Papad Ki Churi
- Quick and Easy: It takes only a few minutes to prepare, making it an ideal snack for when you’re in a rush.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spices and flavors according to your preference, making it easy to create a version that suits your taste.
- Budget-Friendly: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious snack that doesn’t break the bank.
Papad Ki Churi is a perfect way to use leftover papads and transform them into a crunchy, flavorful snack that is loved by everyone in the family. Whether you’re serving it for a party, as a side with a meal, or just snacking in the evening, this dish is sure to impress.
