How to Make Sev Namkeen (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sev Namkeen is a beloved Indian snack, especially popular in West India, with roots in Gujarat and Maharashtra. It is made from besan (gram flour), seasoned with spices, and deep-fried to form crunchy noodle-like strands. Sev Namkeen holds a special place in Indian cuisine, often enjoyed as a standalone snack or as a garnish for chaats and street food. Its irresistible crunch, savory flavor, and versatility make it a go-to choice for teatime, lunch accompaniments, or festive treats. Sev Namkeen is synonymous with celebrations like Diwali, where it is prepared in large batches and shared with family and friends. This healthy version uses minimal oil and air-frying methods, preserving the authentic taste while making it suitable for daily calorie-conscious diets. With its mild yet flavorful spices, Sev Namkeen is a perfect snack for both adults and children, reflecting the vibrant food culture of West India. Whether packed in a lunchbox or served with chai, this dish brings together tradition, taste, and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Besan (gram flour) (Use fresh for best results)
- 2 tbsp Rice flour (Chawal ka atta, adds crunch)
- 1/4 tsp Haldi (turmeric powder)
- 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Ajwain (carom seeds) (Aids digestion)
- 1 pinch Hing (asafoetida)
- to taste Salt (Namak)
- 1 tbsp + for greasing Oil (Use cold-pressed or mustard oil)
- as needed (approx. 1/3 cup) Water (For dough)
- 1 tsp Lemon juice (For freshness)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a large mixing bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, rice flour, haldi, red chilli powder, ajwain, hing, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
Step 2 · Add 1 tbsp oil to the dry ingredients and mix until the flour appea...
Add 1 tbsp oil to the dry ingredients and mix until the flour appears crumbly. This step ensures a crispy texture.
Step 3 · Gradually add water (and lemon juice
Gradually add water (and lemon juice, if using) to form a soft, smooth, and pliable dough. Avoid over-kneading.
Step 4 · Grease the inside of a sev maker (chakli press) with oil
Grease the inside of a sev maker (chakli press) with oil. Fill it with the prepared dough.
Step 5 · If deep-frying: Heat oil in a kadhai on medium flame
If deep-frying: Heat oil in a kadhai on medium flame. Directly press sev into the oil, moving in a circular motion. Fry until golden and crisp, turning once.
Step 6 · For air-frying: Preheat air fryer to 180°C
For air-frying: Preheat air fryer to 180°C. Pipe sev onto parchment-lined tray and air-fry for 8-10 minutes, checking halfway.
Step 7 · Remove sev and drain excess oil using absorbent paper
Remove sev and drain excess oil using absorbent paper. Cool completely before breaking into pieces and storing.
Why this recipe is healthy
By air-frying or using less oil, this Sev Namkeen retains its authentic taste but drastically lowers saturated fat and overall calories. Using besan instead of refined flours boosts protein and fiber, promoting satiety and stable energy levels. The inclusion of rice flour adds crunch without excess calories, and spices not only enhance flavor but also provide health benefits. This recipe is perfect for those seeking tasty, guilt-free Indian snacks.
A note on tradition
Sev Namkeen is an iconic snack in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, often made during Diwali and Holi as part of festive farsan platters. It is also an everyday food, enjoyed with poha, upma, or sprinkled over bhel puri and sev puri in Indian street food culture. The dish reflects the Indian tradition of preparing home-made snacks to share with loved ones during festivals and family gatherings.