Spicy Mixture
Lunch • India
How to Make Spicy Mixture (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Spicy Mixture, known as 'Masala Mixture' in Hindi, is a beloved Indian snack that brings together a medley of crunchy ingredients, roasted pulses, and aromatic spices. Originating from the street food culture of India, this mixture is traditionally served during festivals like Diwali and Holi, when families gather and celebrate with an array of snacks and sweets. Its irresistible crunch and spicy kick make it a popular choice for lunchboxes, tea-time, or as a quick munch during busy afternoons. The beauty of Spicy Mixture lies in its adaptability—it can be customized with regional ingredients like roasted moong dal, sev, or murmura (puffed rice), depending on local preferences. In South India, you might find it infused with curry leaves and peanuts, while North Indian versions often feature spicy masala-coated gram flour crisps. This healthy version uses minimal oil, incorporates baked elements, and is perfect for calorie-conscious foodies. The vibrant taste and rich cultural significance make Spicy Mixture an evergreen favorite in Indian homes.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (approx. 80g))
- 1 cup Besan sev (gram flour noodles)
- 1/2 cup Roasted moong dal (mung beans)
- 1 cup Murmura (puffed rice)
- 1/4 cup Chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 1/3 cup Peanuts (roasted)
- 12-15 leaves Curry leaves (fresh)
- 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds (rai)
- 1 tsp Red chilli powder (lal mirch)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Oil (cold-pressed, for roasting)
Instructions
- 1
Heat a heavy-bottomed kadhai on medium flame. Add oil and let it warm up. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.
3 minutes
Ensure oil is hot before adding mustard seeds for maximum flavor.
- 2
Add curry leaves and sauté for a minute until aromatic. Stir in peanuts and roast until they turn golden and crunchy.
4 minutes
Roasting peanuts evenly ensures a perfect crunch.
- 3
Add chana dal and roast on low flame till it turns crisp. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
3 minutes
Keep flame low during roasting to avoid over-browning.
- 4
Add murmura and roasted moong dal. Toss well to combine all ingredients.
2 minutes
Toss gently to avoid breaking the murmura.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By roasting ingredients and using cold-pressed oil, this recipe cuts down calories and unhealthy fats commonly found in traditional mixtures. Pulses and nuts deliver protein and fiber for satiety, making Spicy Mixture great for weight management. The spices not only enhance flavor but also support metabolism and digestion, helping you stay energized without excess calories.
This Spicy Mixture is rich in plant-based protein from moong dal and chana dal, healthy fats from peanuts, and fiber from puffed rice and gram flour sev. The use of minimal oil and roasting instead of deep-frying significantly reduces unhealthy fats. Curry leaves and turmeric add antioxidants, while the mixture provides essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. It's a balanced snack suitable for vegetarian diets and offers sustained energy throughout the day.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always cool the mixture before storing to prevent moisture and sogginess.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust spice levels according to taste and add a dash of lemon for freshness.
- 💡Tip 3: Use fresh curry leaves for the best aroma and flavor.
Storage & Serving
Store Spicy Mixture in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Ensure it's completely cool before storing to maintain crispness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 170.0 kcal |
