Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and crunchy snacking experience with these 18 mouthwatering Chekkalu recipes! Also known as puffed rice crackers, Chekkalus are a popular Indian snack that can be enjoyed during festive seasons or as a quick afternoon pick-me-up. With a wide range of flavors to choose from, you’ll never get bored of this addictive snack. From classic rice flour and peanut-based options to spicier variations like onion and green chili, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or something more elaborate, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make Chekkalu recipes. So go ahead, get cracking (pun intended!), and discover your new favorite snack!
Spicy Masala Chekkalu
A flavorful and aromatic Indian snack, Spicy Masala Chekkalus are crispy rice flour dumplings flavored with a blend of spices and herbs. Perfect for a quick bite or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Pinch of asafoetida (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix rice flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Add oil, onion, chilies, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and asafoetida (if using) to the mixture. Mix well.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
- Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
- Fry the balls in hot oil until they are golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with a cup of tea or as a snack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crunchy Peanut Chekkalu
Experience the perfect blend of crunchy texture and nutty flavor with this simple recipe for Crunchy Peanut Chekkalu. These savory crackers are a popular snack in Indian cuisine, and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite chutney.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup peanut oil
– 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, gram flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add in the peanut oil and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
7. Drizzle the chopped peanuts over the crackers.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic and Herb Chekkalu
A flavorful twist on traditional chekkalu, these crispy flatbreads are infused with the savory goodness of garlic and a blend of aromatic herbs. Perfect as a snack or accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add vegetable oil, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and oregano; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide dough into 6-8 portions; shape each portion into a ball.
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
7. Place chekkalus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Rice Flour Chekkalu
Chekkalu are a popular South Indian snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This recipe for Classic Rice Flour Chekkalu is a simple and flavorful take on this traditional treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rice flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water to form a soft dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, shape each portion into a ball, and then flatten it slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat enough ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat to fry the chekkalu.
5. When the oil is hot, carefully slide in 2-3 chekkalu at a time and fry until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the fried chekkalu from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Chekkalu Bites
These bite-sized treats are a delightful combination of crispy, cheesy goodness and soft, flavorful bread. Perfect for snack time or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of chekkalu (Indian-style crackers)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange chekkalu on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
4. Place small dollops of the cheese mixture onto each chekkalu, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
5. Dot the top of each bite with softened butter.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Onion and Green Chili Chekkalu
Chekkalu is a popular Indian flatbread that pairs perfectly with a variety of fillings. This recipe adds a savory twist by incorporating sautéed onions and green chilies, giving it a tangy and aromatic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Brush the flatbread with a little oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, sauté chopped onions and green chilies in a pan until caramelized.
7. Assemble by placing the onion-green chili mixture on top of the cooked flatbread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Seed Chekkalu
Sesame Seed Chekkalu is a popular snack from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, made with rice flour and sesame seeds. These crispy, flavorful fritters are perfect as an accompaniment to your favorite soups or chutneys.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice flour
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together rice flour, sesame seeds, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead well until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the chekkalu until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cumin and Black Pepper Chekkalu
Chekkalus are crispy, savory flatbread popular in Karnataka, India. This recipe combines the flavors of cumin and black pepper to create a flavorful snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Mix together the flour, salt, cumin seeds, and black pepper powder in a bowl.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into thin circles, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush the edges of each chekkalu with ghee or oil.
7. Cook on a hot griddle or skillet over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side, until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Jaggery Chekkalu
Sweet Jaggery Chekkalu Recipe
Sweet Jaggery Chekkalu is a traditional Indian sweet snack made with jaggery and rice flour, perfect for a quick treat or as an offering to the gods.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rice flour
– 1/4 cup grated jaggery
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)
– Water, as needed
– Chopped nuts or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour and grated jaggery.
2. Add cardamom powder and mix well.
3. Gradually add water to the mixture and knead until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook the balls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are lightly browned and fragrant.
7. Remove from heat and brush with ghee.
8. Garnish with chopped nuts or sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Curry Leaves and Mustard Chekkalu
Chekkalu, a popular South Indian snack, gets a delightful twist with the addition of curry leaves and mustard. This crunchy treat is perfect for a quick evening munch or as a accompaniment to your favorite cuppa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
– 10-12 curry leaves, chopped
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Mix together flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add oil and mix until the dough comes together. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough.
3. Divide the dough into small balls.
4. Roll out each ball into thin circles (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
5. Place 1-2 chopped curry leaves and 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing the edges together to seal.
7. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the Chekkalu until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
8. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cornmeal Chekkalu
A flavorful and crunchy snack from South India, Cornmeal Chekkalu is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the ghee or oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the lukewarm water and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the Chekkalu for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve warm with a sprinkle of cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Lentil Chekkalu
Chekkalu is a popular South Indian snack that combines the flavors of spinach, lentils, and spices. This recipe adds a crunchy twist to the traditional version by incorporating crispy rice flour flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Rice flour flatbread (about 10-12 pieces)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and cooked lentils. Cook until the mixture is well combined and slightly browned.
3. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they wilt.
4. Season with salt and coriander powder.
5. Fry the rice flour flatbread in hot oil until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. Assemble the Chekkalu by placing a spoonful of the lentil mixture onto a flatbread piece.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Flavored Chekkalu
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chekkalus, these coconut flavored treats are perfect for snacking or as a dessert. With the combination of flaky dough, crunchy coconut, and a hint of sweetness, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough forms.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into balls.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
6. Sprinkle shredded coconut on one half of the circle, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
7. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges together to seal.
8. Heat oil in a deep frying pan and fry until golden brown (3-4 minutes).
9. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioner’s sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Chili and Turmeric Chekkalu
A spicy twist on traditional chekkalu, these flavorful flatbreads are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
5. Brush the edges of each circle with vegetable oil.
6. Sprinkle red chili powder and turmeric evenly over each circle.
7. Fold the circles in half to form triangles, pressing the edges together to seal.
8. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the chekkalu for 30 seconds on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Whole Wheat Chekkalu
Chekkalus are a popular South Indian snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. These crispy, savory flatbread is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite chutney or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Optional: sesame seeds, coriander leaves, and/or chilies for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
6. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the chekkalu for 30-40 seconds on each side or until they are crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or tea. Garnish with sesame seeds, coriander leaves, and/or chilies if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Moong Dal Chekkalu
Moong Dal Chekkalu are crispy, savory flatbread from southern India, made with split green gram and spices. This recipe is a perfect example of the region’s simplicity and emphasis on wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup moong dal (split green gram)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (optional)
– 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and grind the dal into a smooth paste using a blender or grinder.
3. Add salt, baking soda, and asafoetida (if using) to the paste and mix well.
4. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a dough.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and shape each into a disk.
6. Heat oil or ghee in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the chekkalu for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ginger and Coriander Chekkalu
Experience the bold flavors of India with this recipe for crunchy, savory Chekkalus spiced with ginger and coriander. Perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, toasted and ground
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add ghee or oil, lukewarm water, grated ginger, and ground coriander seeds. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
7. Fry Chekkalus in hot oil until golden brown, or bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
8. Drain on paper towels and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including resting time)
Puffed Rice Chekkalu
These crispy puffed rice snacks are a popular treat in Indian cuisine, perfect for munching on the go. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking time, you can enjoy this delicious snack at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups puffed rice
– 1/4 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the gram flour and mix well to combine.
3. Add the puffed rice, salt, and baking soda. Mix until the puffed rice is evenly coated.
4. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into desired forms (e.g., balls or logs).
6. Fry the chekkalu in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful fest with these 18 crispy chekkalu recipes! From spicy masala to cheesy bites, and from classic rice flour to whole wheat, there’s something for every taste bud. Crunchy peanut, garlic and herb, and sesame seed are just a few of the delicious variations you’ll find here. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a unique appetizer, these chekkalu recipes will satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the festive snacking!
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