If you’re looking to spice up your snack game with something flavorful, wholesome, and absolutely delicious, then this Veg Chakna Recipe is just what you need! Chakna, traditionally known as a spicy and tangy accompaniment to drinks in India, usually features non-vegetarian ingredients.
But this vegetarian version is a delightful twist that brings all the zest and punch without any compromise on taste. It’s perfect for those who prefer plant-based options but don’t want to miss out on bold flavors.
This veg chakna is a medley of crunchy roasted chickpeas, peanuts, and mixed nuts tossed with aromatic spices and a hint of tanginess. It’s not only a fantastic snack for your evening tea or a party appetizer but also a great protein-rich nibble to keep you energized.
Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe will soon become your go-to for festive occasions or casual get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This veg chakna recipe is a perfect blend of crunchy textures and robust flavors that awaken your taste buds with every bite. It is:
- Easy to make: Requires minimal ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy: Packed with plant-based proteins from chickpeas and nuts, making it a nutritious snack option.
- Versatile: Can be customized with different nuts, seeds, and spices to suit your preference.
- Perfect for parties: A crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with drinks or as a standalone snack.
- Long shelf life: Stores well in an airtight container, so you can enjoy it for days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted chickpeas (chana)
- 1/2 cup peanuts
- 1/4 cup cashews
- 1/4 cup almonds
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon amchur powder (dry mango powder)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh coriander (optional)
- 1 fresh green chili, finely chopped (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Serving bowl
- Airtight container for storage
Instructions
- Prepare the nuts and chickpeas: If you’re not using pre-roasted chickpeas, roast them in a dry pan over medium heat until crispy. Similarly, dry roast peanuts, cashews, and almonds separately until golden and aromatic. Set aside to cool.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, warm the oil over medium heat. This will help the spices stick to the nuts and chickpeas later.
- Add chickpeas and nuts to the pan: Toss the roasted chickpeas, peanuts, cashews, and almonds into the warm oil. Stir well to coat evenly and let them heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the spices: Quickly add the chaat masala, red chili powder, black salt, cumin powder, amchur powder, and regular salt. Mix thoroughly so all ingredients are evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook on low heat: Reduce the heat to low and roast the mixture for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning and to ensure the flavors meld together.
- Add fresh ingredients: If using, toss in the finely chopped coriander and green chili at this stage. Stir for a minute and then turn off the heat.
- Cool and store: Transfer the veg chakna to a serving bowl or an airtight container once it reaches room temperature.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with your favorite beverages or store it for up to two weeks.
Tips & Variations
For an extra crunch, try adding some roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds to the mix. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pistachios depending on your preference and availability.
To make it more tangy, add a little more amchur powder or squeeze fresh lemon juice just before serving. For a milder heat, reduce the red chili powder or omit the green chili.
If you want a roasted flavor, you can dry roast the entire mixture in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of pan roasting, stirring halfway through.
Veg chakna is also delightful when tossed with a pinch of garam masala or chatpata chaat masala for a different taste profile. Feel free to get creative!
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1/4 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 7 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 12 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 250 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This veg chakna pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of masala chai or your favorite cold beverage. It’s a hit at parties as a crunchy, flavorful appetizer that guests can munch on throughout the evening.
For a more substantial snack, serve it alongside a bowl of Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or mix it into salads for added crunch. It’s also a great companion to cocktails like the Huckleberry Margarita Recipe for a refreshing balance of flavors.
If you enjoy experimenting with dips, try pairing this chakna with the creamy and tangy Halibut Dip Recipe for a delightful contrast.
Conclusion
The veg chakna recipe is a vibrant, healthy, and utterly delicious snack that captures the essence of Indian street food with a vegetarian twist. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy bold flavors and crunchy textures without relying on meat-based ingredients.
With simple pantry staples and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this snack in no time and impress your friends and family.
Moreover, its versatility means you can tailor it to your personal taste, whether you prefer it spicy, tangy, or mild. Store it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a tasty treat ready whenever the craving strikes.
So why wait? Try this veg chakna recipe today and elevate your snack time to a whole new level!
📖 Recipe Card: Chakna Recipe Veg
Description: A spicy and tangy vegetarian snack perfect to serve with drinks. Made with mixed vegetables and traditional Indian spices for a flavorful treat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped potatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped green peas
- 1/2 cup chopped cauliflower
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds until they splutter.
- Add onions and green chilies, sauté until onions turn translucent.
- Add chopped potatoes, carrots, peas, and cauliflower; mix well.
- Sprinkle turmeric, red chili, coriander powder, and salt; stir to coat vegetables.
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 25 g
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