Masala Peanut Chaat – Spicy Street-Style Comfort in Every Bite

◦ 📍 Prep Time: 10 mins

◦ 🔥 Cook Time: 10 mins

◦ ⏱️ Total Time: 20 mins

◦ 👨‍👩–👧‍👦 Serves: 3–4

Spicy, Crunchy, and Irresistible!

Introduction: A Taste of Bangalore Rain and Street Corners 🌿

There’s something about Bangalore’s drizzles that makes you crave street food — the kind that’s spicy, nutty, and soul-warming. I still remember rainy evenings when the palli masala cart near our lane would fill the air with the aroma of roasted peanuts and masala. This version is my homely take on that nostalgic favourite — a warm, chatpata snack you can toss together in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: A high-protein alternative to fried snacks.

• Lightning Fast: Ready to enjoy in under 20 minutes.

• Street-Style Flavours: Bursting with bold, authentic Indian street food vibes.

• Highly Customizable: Easy to adjust the spice to suit your preference.

• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for kids’ evening snacks or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Raw peanuts (groundnuts): 2 cups

• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped

• Green chilli: 1 small, deseeded and chopped

• Turmeric powder: a pinch

• Salt: to taste

Spices:

• Chaat masala: as required

• Coriander (dhania) powder: a pinch

• Cumin (jeera) powder: a pinch

• Garam masala: a pinch (optional)

Optional Add-ons:

• Grated coconut: 3 tbsp (adds texture and sweetness)

• Coriander leaves: finely chopped, for garnish

• Lemon juice: from ½ lemon

• Oil: 1 tsp, for tempering

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the peanuts: Pressure cook peanuts in salted water with turmeric for 3–4 whistles (or simmer in a pot until soft). Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a kadhai. Sauté onions until translucent, then add green chillies and fry for a few seconds.

3. Spice it up: Sprinkle in the chaat masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and optional garam masala. Mix well.

4. Toss: Add the boiled peanuts and toss on a medium flame for 2 minutes until the flavours coat them perfectly.

5. Garnish: Turn off the flame and mix in the grated coconut and coriander leaves.

6. Finish: Squeeze lemon juice just before serving and toss lightly.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra flavour, add a quick tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves in a few drops of coconut oil before mixing in the peanuts.

Serving & Variations

• Perfect Pairings: Serve warm with hot chai on rainy evenings or with a lemon soda during game nights.

• Meal Side: Pairs beautifully as a crunchy side for a simple curd rice meal.

Variations:

◦ Crunchy Twist: Use roasted peanuts instead of boiled ones.

◦ Salad Style: Add diced cucumber, tomato, or grated carrot for a fresh version.

◦ Vegan/Oil-Free: Skip tempering and mix all ingredients raw for a light snack.

◦ South Indian Version: Emphasize the grated coconut and curry leaves.

Health & Storage info

Peanuts are rich in plant-based protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants that keep you full longer.

Nutrition Table (Approx. per serving): | Nutrient | Value | | :--- | :--- | | Calories | 210 kcal | | Protein | 9 g | | Fat | 14 g | | Fibre | 4 g | | Carbs | 8 g |

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheat: Warm lightly in a pan or microwave for 20 seconds.

• Note: Avoid refrigerating if already mixed with lemon juice, as it can turn soggy.

This simple, spicy palli masala is proof that comfort doesn’t need complicated ingredients. It’s quick, nostalgic, and perfect for the Indian monsoon spirit. Tag @TummyKhush when you try it!