Boondi in general is a very pan Indian prasad or prasadam that is found in many temples across the country. Kara Boondhi however, a popular snack in South India that is often served during festivals and special occasions, apart from being distributed as a prasadam in temples.Â
Kaara Boondhi is made from chickpea flour, which is a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Chickpea flour is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthier alternative to other fried snacks. However, since Kaara Boondi is deep-fried, it can still be high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.
The approximate nutritional content of 100g of Kaara Boondhi:
- Calories: 440
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 53g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g
However, it is also a good source of protein and dietary fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. To make Kaara Boondhi a healthier snack option, you can try baking it instead of deep-frying or consume it in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.
Here is a simple recipe for making Kaara Boondhi at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chickpea flour (besan)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp hot oil
- Water as needed
- Oil for frying
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 10-12 curry leaves
- 2 dried red chilies
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, add chickpea flour, baking soda, red chili powder, asafoetida, salt, and hot oil. Mix well.
- Add water little by little to the mixture and whisk to form a smooth batter of pouring consistency. The batter should not be too thick or too thin.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, hold a boondhi ladle or slotted spoon over the hot oil. Pour a ladleful of the batter over the spoon or ladle, and gently tap it with a spoon to let the batter drip into the oil.
- Fry the boondhis until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain the excess oil on a paper towel.
- In a separate pan, heat oil for seasoning. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add asafoetida, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. Fry for a few seconds.
- Add the fried boondhis to the seasoning and mix well. Sprinkle salt and mix again.
- Let the Kaara Boondhi cool down completely before storing in an airtight container.
Enjoy the crispy and spicy Kaara Boondhi as a snack or as a side dish with your meal.