Chana Dal

Chana dal snacks are popular Indian snacks made from chana dal, which are split chickpeas (also known as Bengal gram lentils). Chana dal is a staple in Indian cooking and is used in a variety of dishes, including curries, soups, and snacks.

Chana Dal Namkeen is a popular Indian savory snack made from chana dal, which are split chickpeas. This crunchy and flavorful snack is commonly enjoyed with tea or as an appetizer.

Here’s a basic recipe for making Chana Dal Namkeen:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
• Oil for deep frying
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• Curry leaves (optional)
• Chaat masala (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Wash the chana dal thoroughly and soak it in water for about 2-3 hours. Drain the soaked dal and spread it on a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.
2. Frying: Heat enough oil for deep frying in a pan. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking. You can check the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of chana dal into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
3. Frying Chana Dal: Fry the soaked and drained chana dal in batches. Fry them until they turn golden brown and become crispy. This can take around 7-10 minutes. Remove the fried chana dal using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. Seasoning: In a separate bowl, mix together salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and asafoetida.
5. Tossing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried chana dal with the spice mixture. Toss the chana dal well, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed.
6. Optional Additions: If you like, you can add curry leaves to the seasoned chana dal for an extra aromatic flavor.
7. Cooling: Let the Chana Dal Namkeen cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
8. Optional Finishing: Sprinkle some chaat masala over the namkeen for an additional tangy flavor, if desired.