How to Make Mixture with Peanuts (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mixture with Peanuts, popularly known as 'Namkeen Mixture' or 'Chivda', is an iconic Indian snack that beautifully combines roasted peanuts with a medley of crunchy elements like poha (flattened rice), sev, and spices. Originating from the diverse street food traditions of India, this savory mixture is enjoyed across regions, especially during tea-time or as a festive treat during Diwali and Holi. Its irresistible combination of textures and flavors—spicy, salty, tangy—makes it a favorite in every Indian household. This healthier homemade version is roasted rather than deep-fried, ensuring a light yet satisfying crunch while retaining all the authentic flavors. The inclusion of peanuts, curry leaves, roasted chana dal, and a careful blend of spices not only excites your palate but also delivers nutritional benefits, making it a perfect guilt-free snack. Whether you’re preparing a lunchbox filler or a quick mid-day munch, this recipe is a smart, tasty, and wholesome choice for families. The versatility of Mixture with Peanuts means you can customize it to your taste, region, or dietary needs, making it a timeless staple in Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
- •1/2 cup Peanuts (moongphali)
- •1 cup Flattened rice (poha) (thin or medium variety)
- •1/4 cup Roasted chana dal (dalia)
- •1/2 cup Sev (thin, baked or lightly fried)
- •10-15 Curry leaves (kadi patta)
- •1/2 tsp Mustard seeds (rai)
- •1/2 tsp Red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- •1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- •to taste Salt (sendha namak for vrat (optional))
- •1 tbsp Oil (preferably cold-pressed or groundnut oil)
- •a pinch Asafoetida (hing)
- •8-10 Cashew nuts (kaju, optional for richness)
- •1 tbsp Raisins (kishmish, for a hint of sweetness)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat a large heavy-bottomed kadhai or non-stick pan on medium flame
Heat a large heavy-bottomed kadhai or non-stick pan on medium flame. Add peanuts and dry roast for 4-5 minutes until golden and aromatic. Remove and set aside.
Step 2 · In the same pan
In the same pan, add flattened rice (poha) and dry roast for 3-4 minutes until crisp. The poha should turn light and brittle. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3 · Heat oil in the pan
Heat oil in the pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add curry leaves, asafoetida (if using), and roasted chana dal. Sauté for 30 seconds.
Step 4 · Add cashew nuts (if using) and fry until light golden
Add cashew nuts (if using) and fry until light golden. Toss in raisins, sauté briefly until they puff up. Lower the flame.
Step 5 · Add turmeric powder and red chili powder
Add turmeric powder and red chili powder. Stir quickly to avoid burning the spices.
Step 6 · Immediately add roasted poha and peanuts back to the pan
Immediately add roasted poha and peanuts back to the pan. Sprinkle salt. Mix well so everything is evenly coated with spices and oil.
Step 7 · Add sev and toss gently to combine
Add sev and toss gently to combine. Let the mixture cool completely before storing.
Step 8 · Transfer to an airtight container
Transfer to an airtight container. Serve with chai or as a lunchbox snack.
Why this recipe is healthy
This recipe is a healthy alternative to store-bought namkeen, which is often deep-fried and high in sodium. By roasting the ingredients and using minimal oil, you keep calories and unhealthy fats in check while retaining essential nutrients. The mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs provides sustained energy, making it a balanced snack for weight management, diabetic diets, or family snacking.
A note on tradition
Mixture with Peanuts is a beloved snack across India, especially during festivals like Diwali, when families prepare large batches to share with guests. Its versatility means every region adds its own twist: in Maharashtra, it’s called 'Chivda'; in the South, spicy 'Mixture' includes murukku bits. It’s a staple in Indian tiffin boxes and often accompanies evening chai, symbolizing the joy of sharing and togetherness.