Til Masala Khakhra is a popular snack from the Gujarati cuisine that blends the crunchy texture of khakhra with the nutty goodness of sesame seeds (til) and aromatic spices. This crispy, wholesome treat is not only delicious but also makes for a healthy snack option due to the nutritional benefits of sesame seeds and the minimal use of oil. It’s perfect to enjoy with tea or as a light munch between meals. Let’s dive into the recipe and make this delightful snack at home!
Ingredients
- For the dough:
- Whole wheat flour – 2 cups
- Sesame seeds (til) – 2 tablespoons (roasted)
- Caraway seeds (ajwain) – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Warm water – as required for kneading
- Ghee or oil – 1 tablespoon (optional, for added flavor)
- For the spice mix:
- Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
- Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch
- Chat masala – 1/2 teaspoon
- Black sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, sesame seeds, caraway seeds, cumin powder, and salt.
- Add warm water gradually and knead the ingredients into a smooth and firm dough. If you want a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of ghee or oil at this stage.
- Once kneaded, cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
2. Roll the Khakhras:
- Divide the dough into equal-sized portions (about 8-10 small balls).
- Roll each ball into a smooth, round ball and then roll it out into a thin, round disc using a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 2mm.
- If needed, sprinkle a little flour on the surface to prevent the dough from sticking while rolling.
3. Cook the Khakhras:
- Heat a tawa or non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, place the rolled-out khakhra onto the pan.
- Cook on one side until you see small bubbles forming. Flip the khakhra over and press gently with a spatula to help it cook evenly. You’ll notice the khakhra starting to puff up slightly.
- Once the second side is lightly golden, flip it back to the first side. Keep flipping and pressing the khakhra to ensure it gets evenly crisp and golden brown on both sides.
- The khakhra should be crunchy and crispy when done. Remove it from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.
4. Spice the Khakhras:
- While the khakhra is still warm, prepare a spice mix by combining red chili powder, garam masala, chat masala, and asafoetida.
- Sprinkle the spice mix generously over the khakhra, making sure it coats the surface evenly.
- For added flavor and crunch, sprinkle black sesame seeds on top and press lightly to set them in place.
5. Serve:
- Allow the khakhras to cool completely before serving. They are best enjoyed with a cup of masala chai or yogurt dip.
Tips for Perfect Khakhra:
- Thinness is Key: The thinner you roll the dough, the crispier your khakhra will be. Don’t rush this step; take your time to roll the dough as thin as possible.
- Even Cooking: Make sure to cook the khakhra on a medium heat. High heat can burn the khakhra, while low heat might not crisp it up properly.
- Storage: Khakhras can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a great snack for meal prep or for a travel-friendly snack.
Why You Should Try Til Masala Khakhra:
- Healthy Snack: Sesame seeds are packed with nutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, and protein. This makes Til Masala Khakhra a nutritious and energy-boosting snack.
- Crispy and Addictive: The combination of crunchy texture and flavorful spices makes each bite irresistible.
- Easy to Make: Despite its sophisticated flavor, this recipe requires basic ingredients and is simple to prepare.
Conclusion:
Til Masala Khakhra is the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and health. It’s an ideal snack for those looking to enjoy something light yet flavorful. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or munch on it during the day, this Gujarati delicacy is sure to win your heart!
