Chanchur Mix
Lunch • India
How to Make Chanchur Mix (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chanchur Mix is a beloved Bengali snack, known for its vibrant flavors and crunchy textures. Originating from the heart of Bengal, this mix is a medley of roasted and puffed ingredients, peanuts, sev, and spices, making it a popular choice for lunch-time munching or as an accompaniment to tea. The dish is deeply rooted in Bengali street food culture and is often enjoyed during festivals like Durga Puja, when families gather and share regional treats. The flavors are a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and savory, with a hint of sweetness from raisins, making it an irresistible blend. Chanchur Mix is traditionally prepared using locally sourced ingredients such as chana dal, moong dal, peanuts (mungfali), puffed rice (muri), and sev. The snack is light yet filling, perfect for health-conscious individuals seeking to indulge in authentic Indian cuisine without compromising their dietary goals. Its versatility allows for easy customization, catering to various taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether served in a bowl or wrapped in a paper cone, Chanchur Mix encapsulates the essence of Bengali street food and home-style goodness, offering a wholesome option for lunch or as a festive treat.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (approx. 100g per serving))
- 2 cups Puffed rice (Muri in Bengali)
- 1/2 cup Roasted chana dal (Bhuna chana dal)
- 1/2 cup Roasted peanuts (Mungfali)
- 1/2 cup Sev (Thin besan sev)
- 1/4 cup Moong dal (Lightly roasted)
- 2 tbsp Raisins (Kishmish) - optional
- 1 tbsp Mustard oil (Sarson ka tel)
- 2 Green chillies (Chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (Dhaniya patta, chopped)
- 1 tsp Chaat masala (For tangy flavor)
- to taste Salt (Sendha namak for health)
Instructions
- 1
Dry roast the moong dal and chana dal on a tawa until crisp and golden. Set aside to cool.
5 minutes
Roasting enhances the flavor and crunch, avoid burning.
- 2
Roast the peanuts separately until aromatic. Remove skins if desired.
5 minutes
Use low flame to prevent peanuts from turning bitter.
- 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine puffed rice, roasted dal, peanuts, sev, and raisins.
3 minutes
Mix gently to avoid breaking puffed rice.
- 4
In a small pan, heat mustard oil. Add chopped green chillies and sauté for 1 minute. Pour the infused oil over the mixture.
3 minutes
Mustard oil gives authentic Bengali flavor; heat until just fragrant.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Chanchur Mix recipe uses minimal oil, roasted ingredients, and skips deep-fried components, making it a low-calorie, nutrient-dense snack. It supports weight management and provides sustained energy for lunch. The fiber content aids digestion, while the blend of legumes and nuts delivers essential amino acids. It’s healthier than commercial mixtures due to the absence of preservatives and excessive salt.
Chanchur Mix is packed with plant-based protein from chana dal and moong dal, healthy fats from peanuts, and dietary fiber from puffed rice. The addition of coriander and green chillies provides vitamins A and C, while raisins offer natural sweetness and iron. Using mustard oil adds omega-3 fatty acids and supports heart health. The dish is low in saturated fat and can be made gluten-free by omitting sev, making it suitable for most dietary needs.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always roast dals and peanuts fresh for extra crunch and aroma.
- 💡Tip 2: Use cold-pressed mustard oil for authentic Bengali taste.
- 💡Tip 3: Add sev just before serving to keep it crisp.
Storage & Serving
Store Chanchur Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keep away from moisture to maintain crunch. Mix fresh coriander and chillies only before serving for best flavor.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 220.0 kcal |
