Mixture with Cashews
Lunch • India
How to Make Mixture with Cashews (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mixture with Cashews, also known as Kaju Mixture, is a classic South Indian snack that beautifully combines crunchy roasted nuts, besan sev, and a variety of lentils and spices. Traditionally enjoyed during festivals like Diwali and Deepavali, this savory snack is a staple in many Tamil Nadu and Andhra households. The inclusion of cashews (kaju) adds a rich, buttery flavor and a touch of luxury, making it perfect for special occasions or as a wholesome tea-time treat. This snack is not only packed with flavor but also offers a delightful blend of textures—crunchy, crispy, and nutty. Unlike store-bought mixtures that can be oily and high in sodium, our homemade, health-conscious version uses less oil, roasted components, and a balanced mix of ingredients to keep it nutritious and light. It's a great option for those looking to enjoy traditional Indian snacks without compromising on health. Whether served at lunch, as a side, or with chai, Mixture with Cashews brings back nostalgic memories of Indian festivals and family gatherings.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (about 60g) per serving)
- 1/2 cup Raw cashews (kaju) (Whole or halved)
- 1/4 cup Roasted chana dal (Dalia)
- 1/2 cup Thin poha (beaten rice) (Aval)
- 1/2 cup Besan sev (Homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup Peanuts (Mungfali)
- 10-12 leaves Curry leaves (Kadi patta)
- 1/2 tsp Red chili powder (Lal mirch)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (Haldi)
- to taste Salt (Sendha namak for vrat)
- 2 tbsp Cold-pressed groundnut oil (For roasting)
Instructions
- 1
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a kadhai (wok) over medium flame. Add cashews and roast till golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3 minutes
Stir continuously to avoid burning the cashews.
- 2
In the same kadhai, add peanuts and roast until they start to splutter and turn crisp. Set aside.
3 minutes
Roasting enhances the flavor and keeps peanuts crunchy.
- 3
Add thin poha to the kadhai and dry roast until lightly crispy. Remove and keep aside.
2 minutes
Keep flame low to avoid browning the poha.
- 4
Fry curry leaves in 1 tsp oil until crisp. This adds aroma and authentic South Indian flavor.
1 minute
Pat curry leaves dry before frying to prevent oil splatter.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This homemade Mixture with Cashews uses minimal oil and is packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Roasting instead of deep frying reduces calorie content and keeps the mixture light. The inclusion of nuts and lentils ensures satiety, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks loaded with preservatives and excess salt.
Mixture with Cashews is a nutritious Indian snack rich in plant-based protein from chana dal, peanuts, and cashews. Cashews provide healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc, supporting heart health and immunity. Poha adds complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while curry leaves bring antioxidants and essential vitamins. By roasting ingredients instead of deep frying, the recipe minimizes unhealthy fats and retains nutrients, making it suitable for calorie-conscious individuals.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always roast nuts and poha separately for even crunch.
- 💡Tip 2: Add spices after turning off the flame to prevent burning and retain color.
- 💡Tip 3: Use fresh curry leaves for authentic South Indian aroma.
Storage & Serving
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Ensure the mixture is completely cool before storing to retain crispness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 210.0 kcal |
