Introduction:

 

Namaste! I'm Chef Ajay Chopra, and I'm thrilled to share my favorite festive snack recipe: Diwali Special Chatpata Kaju Namkeen. I remember the first time I made this; it was a hit with family and friends, and since then, it's become a tradition. This crunchy, spicy treat is perfect for Diwali gatherings and makes an ideal gift for loved ones. The recipe combines aromatic spices like cumin, black pepper, and the rare long pepper (pipli), a staple in ancient digestive remedies and beloved for its distinct flavor. So, let's get cooking and make this season a bit more flavorful!

 

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Ingredients of Chatpata Kaju Namkeen

• Wheat Flour: 1 cup
• Suji (Semolina): 1 cup
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Oil: 2 tbsp + 1 tbsp + additional for deep frying
• Water: as required

 

 

For Black Chaat Masala:

• Coriander Seeds: 2 tbsp
• Cumin Seeds (Jeera): 1 tbsp
• Black Pepper: 1 tbsp
• Ajwain (Carom Seeds): 1 tsp
• Long Pepper (Peepli): 3 pcs
• Dry Red Chili: 1 pcs
• Citric Acid: ¼ tsp
• Amchur (Dried Mango Powder): 1 tsp
• Black Salt: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp

 

For Mint Chaat Masala:

• Chaat Masala: 2 tbsp
• Dried Mint Leaves: 2 tbsp
• Red Chili Powder: ½ tsp

 

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Instructions of Chatpata Kaju Namkeen:

 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add wheat flour, suji, salt, and 2 tbsp oil. Mix until the oil incorporates fully, giving a crumbly texture.
• Knead Dough: Gradually add water and knead until a firm dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
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Step 2: Shape the Namkeen

• Divide & Roll Dough: Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each to 2-3 mm thickness, similar to a paratha.
• Cut into Shapes: Using a knife or cutter, slice each rolled portion into small crescent shapes that resemble cashews.
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Step 3: Heat the Oil for Frying

• Test Oil Temperature: In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat. Test by dropping a dough piece; it should rise slowly without browning quickly.
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Step 4: Fry the Namkeen

• Fry in Batches: Fry the kaju-shaped pieces in small batches over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they turn golden and crispy.
• Drain Oil: Remove each batch with a slotted spoon, placing them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Black Chaat Masala

• Blend Spices: Combine coriander seeds, jeera, black pepper, ajwain, long pepper, dry red chili, citric acid, amchur, black salt, and regular salt. Grind into a fine powder.
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Step 6: Prepare the Mint Chaat Masala

• Grind Ingredients: Mix dried mint leaves, chaat masala, and red chili powder. Grind until mint is finely blended.
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Step 7: Coat the Namkeen

• Add Oil & Spices: In a large bowl, drizzle a little oil over the fried pieces, and sprinkle both the black chaat masala and mint chaat masala. Toss to coat evenly.
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Final Step: Cool and Store

• Cool Completely: Allow the spiced namkeen to cool fully before transferring to an airtight container to maintain crispiness.
• 

 

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About the Recipe:

 

This Diwali Special Chatpata Kaju Namkeen is more than just a snack. The combination of roasted spices—like the smoky black pepper and cumin with a hint of pipli—gives it a robust, authentic flavor. If you like your snacks to have a bit of a kick, breaking and roasting whole red chilies will intensify the flavor without overpowering the dish. Once the spices are ground to perfection, they’re mixed into a dough of wheat flour and semolina (suji) that’s carefully rolled and cut into cashew shapes for that festive, nutty touch. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also an ideal Diwali gift, adding a personal homemade touch to your festivities.

 

Cooking Tips:

 

1. Perfect Dough Consistency: Make sure the dough is firm, not too soft or too hard. Suji will absorb moisture over time, so the initial dough should feel slightly soft to balance this.
2. Slow Frying: Fry the cashew-shaped pieces on medium heat. Cooking them slowly helps them stay crispy on the outside and thoroughly cooked inside.
3. Using Dried Mint for Freshness: For an added twist, dried mint leaves can be crushed and added to the chaat masala, adding a refreshing flavor that complements the spices.

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Enjoy your Kaju Namkeen with a warm cup of chai or minty lemonade. It pairs well with both sweet and spicy chutneys. If you’re hosting a Diwali party, this snack is a fantastic pairing with drinks like spiced buttermilk or fruit juices that balance the spice.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions:

 

1. What makes Kaju Namkeen a special Diwali snack?

   • Kaju Namkeen is a crispy, festive treat that brings together classic Indian spices, making it perfect for celebrations and gifting.

2. Can I substitute any ingredients in the spice mix?

   • Yes, but for the authentic taste, try using the original ingredients like pipli and dried mint, which give it a unique flavor.

3. What kind of oil is best for frying?

   • Use refined oil for frying, as it helps maintain the crisp texture without adding heaviness to the snack.

4. How long does the Kaju Namkeen stay fresh?

   • Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about 2-3 weeks, making it ideal for gifting.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

   • Yes, substitute wheat flour with gluten-free flour, though the texture may slightly vary.

6. How do I make the spice mix perfectly roasted?

   • Roast the spices until dark brown, nearly black, for the authentic “kala chaat masala” taste common in Delhi.

7. Is this recipe suitable for kids?

   • Absolutely, just adjust the chili to make it mild.

8. Can I add other nuts to this snack?

   • You can add peanuts or almonds for variety, just adjust the spice accordingly.

9. What makes pipli essential in this recipe?

   • Pipli adds a mild peppery flavor and enhances digestion, giving this snack an old-world touch.

10. Why should the dough be hard?

    • A firm dough prevents the pieces from becoming too soft or absorbing too much oil, resulting in a crunchy snack.

 

Enjoy your Diwali celebrations with this Chatpata Kaju Namkeen recipe, and spread the joy by gifting it to friends and family!

 

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