Roasted Peanuts with Chilli Powder
Lunch • India
How to Make Roasted Peanuts with Chilli Powder (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Roasted Peanuts with Chilli Powder, known locally as 'Mirchi Bhune Mungphali,' is a classic Indian snack enjoyed across the country, especially during the winter months and festive occasions like Makar Sankranti and Lohri. This simple yet flavorful dish features crunchy, golden-roasted peanuts tossed with aromatic Indian spices, including red chilli powder (lal mirch) and a hint of salt. Its spicy, nutty flavor makes it a beloved accompaniment to tea (chai) or as a protein-rich addition to lunch tiffins. The popularity of roasted peanuts spans urban apartment kitchens to rural villages, where they're often enjoyed as a quick 'nashta' (snack) or served at local fairs and gatherings. The dish's versatility allows for countless regional adaptations, with some families adding a squeeze of nimbu (lemon) or finely chopped dhania (coriander) for extra zest. Roasted Peanuts with Chilli Powder is not just delicious; it's also a guilt-free treat that aligns with a health-conscious Indian diet, providing a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor without deep-frying. It's the perfect snack to serve during festivals, family get-togethers, or as a protein boost for busy workdays.
Ingredients(for ½ cup per serving)
- 1 cup Raw peanuts (mungphali) (with skin)
- ½ tsp Red chilli powder (lal mirch) (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp Salt (namak) (or to taste)
- ⅛ tsp Turmeric powder (haldi) (optional, for color) - optional
- a pinch Black salt (kala namak) (for tangy flavor) - optional
- ¼ tsp Chaat masala (optional) - optional
- ½ tsp Lemon juice (nimbu ras) (freshly squeezed) - optional
- 1 tbsp Coriander leaves (dhania) (finely chopped, for garnish) - optional
- 5-6 Curry leaves (kadi patta) (optional, for aroma) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Preheat a heavy-bottomed kadhai or tawa on medium heat. Add the raw peanuts and dry roast them, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
8 minutes
Stir regularly for even roasting and avoid high heat.
- 2
Once the peanuts start turning golden and you hear a crackling sound, reduce the heat and continue roasting until they are crisp. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
5 minutes
Taste a peanut to check for crunchiness—fully roasted peanuts should split easily.
- 3
Rub the cooled peanuts between your palms to remove the skins, if desired. Transfer the peanuts to a mixing bowl.
2 minutes
Removing skins is optional. Skins add extra fiber and flavor.
- 4
Sprinkle red chilli powder, salt, turmeric, black salt, and chaat masala over the warm peanuts. Toss gently to coat the peanuts evenly with spices.
2 minutes
Spice powders blend best while peanuts are still slightly warm.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Roasted Peanuts with Chilli Powder recipe is roasted instead of fried, reducing unhealthy fats and calories. Peanuts offer sustained energy and help in satiety, making them ideal for weight management and diabetic-friendly diets. The use of minimal oil or no oil aligns with healthy eating practices, and the addition of spices not only boosts flavor but also supports metabolic health. It's an excellent snack for those seeking clean, wholesome nutrition.
Peanuts are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, heart-healthy fats, and dietary fiber. They provide essential vitamins like niacin, folate, and vitamin E, along with minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. The addition of spices like turmeric and red chilli powder introduces antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while lemon juice supplies vitamin C. This dish is naturally gluten-free, low in carbohydrates, and contains no added sugar, making it suitable for most diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always use fresh raw peanuts for best flavor and crunch.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust spice levels to your preference—add more chilli for extra heat or more lemon for tang.
- 💡Tip 3: For a smoky flavor, roast peanuts over a traditional chulha (clay stove) or open flame.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled Roasted Peanuts with Chilli Powder in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Ensure no moisture enters to maintain crispness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 165.0 kcal |
