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"Crunchy Delight: Homemade Chana Dal Namkeen Recipe and Benefits"

 ** Homemade Chana Dal Namkeen Recipe**

 **Preparation Time**: 4 hours (includes soaking time) 

**Cooking Time**: 30-40 minutes 

**Total Time**: 4 hours 40 minutes (including preparation and cooking) 

**Servings**: 4-6

** Introduction**

Chana Dal Namkeen, a beloved Indian snack made from split chickpeas, offers a delightful combination of crunchiness and savory spices. This homemade version ensures freshness and allows you to customize flavors to your liking. Whether enjoyed with tea or served as a party snack, Chana Dal Namkeen is a wholesome choice that satisfies cravings without compromising on taste.

** Importance of Ingredients**

- **Chana Dal/Bengal Gram**: Rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and manganese, chana dal provides sustained energy and promotes digestive health.

- **Spices (Red Chilli Powder, Coriander Powder, Amchur, Turmeric, Salt) **: These spices not only enhance flavor but also offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and boosting metabolism.

- **Curry Leaves**: Apart from adding a distinct aroma, curry leaves are known for their antioxidant properties and aid in digestion.

** Occasions and Who Can Enjoy It**

Chana Dal Namkeen is versatile and suitable for various occasions:

- **Snack Time**: Perfect for tea-time snacking or as a munchy during movie nights.

- **Parties and Gatherings**: Serve as a finger food or appetizer.

- **Travel**: Ideal for packing as a crunchy snack on trips.

- **Kids and Adults**: Loved by all ages for its crispy texture and spicy flavor.

** Benefits and Uses of Having This Recipe**:

- **Healthier Alternative**: Homemade namkeen allows you to control the quality of ingredients, avoiding preservatives and excessive oil.

- **Customizable Flavors**: Adjust spices to suit individual preferences, making it milder or spicier as desired.

- **Economical**: Cost-effective compared to store-bought snacks, with ingredients readily available in most kitchens.

- **Versatile**: Serve as a standalone snack or incorporate into chaats and mixes for added variety.

** Ingredients**:

• Chana Dal/Bengal gram - 2 cups
• Red Chilli/Pepper Powder – 1 tsp
• Coriander powder - 1 tsp
• Amchur / dry mango powder - 1 tsp
• Pink salt / black salt as per taste – 1 tsp
• Oil for frying
• Fried curry leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Turmeric - 1 tsp
• Water - 4 cups
• Baking soda - 1/2 tsp

** Detailed Cooking Instructions**:

1. **Soaking the Chana Dal**:

   - Rinse 2 cups of chana dal thoroughly under cold water to remove impurities.

   - In a large bowl, soak the chana dal in 4 cups of water and 1/2 tsp baking soda. Let it soak for 4 hours to soften.

2. **Draining and Drying**:

   - After soaking, drain the chana dal using a sieve or colander. Rinse it again under cold water to remove any residual baking soda.

   - Spread the soaked chana dal on a clean kitchen towel or cloth. Pat it dry gently to remove excess moisture. Air dry for 15-20 minutes to ensure no moisture remains.

3. **Frying the Chana Dal**:

   - Heat enough oil for deep frying in a kadai or deep pan over medium heat.

   - Test the oil temperature by dropping a few chana dal grains; they should sizzle and rise slowly.

   - Carefully add the dried chana dal to the hot oil in batches. Fry on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

   - Use a slotted spoon to remove fried chana dal onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them cool completely.

4. **Seasoning the Namkeen**:

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried chana dal with 1 tsp red chilli powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp amchur powder, 1 tsp turmeric, and 1 tsp salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.

   - Toss the chana dal gently to coat evenly with the spices. Add fried curry leaves for extra flavor and aroma.

5. **Adding Fried Curry Leaves**:

   - For an extra burst of flavor, add a handful of fried curry leaves to the seasoned chana dal. The curry leaves add a unique aroma and enhance the overall taste of the namkeen.

6. **Storage**:

   - Allow the seasoned chana dal namkeen to cool completely for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Once cooled and seasoned, transfer the namkeen to an airtight container.

   - Store in a cool, dry place for up to a week. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness and crunchiness.

** Health Benefits and Uses**:

- **High Protein**: Chana dal is rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

- **Fiber**: Helps in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, aiding in weight management.

- **Minerals**: Provides iron and manganese, vital for energy production and bone health.

- **Spices**: Turmeric, red chilli, and coriander offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, supporting overall health.

** Cooking Tips and Variations**:

- **Oil Temperature**: Maintain medium heat to ensure even frying without burning.

- **Spice Levels**: Adjust spice quantities to suit personal preference.

- **Variations**: Add roasted peanuts or cashews for extra crunch, or sprinkle chaat masala for a tangy twist.

- **Healthy Twist**: Try baking instead of frying for a lower-fat option.

** Nutritional Information**:

- **Calories**: Approximately 250 kcal per serving (1 cup)

- **Protein**: 12g

- **Carbohydrates**: 40g

- **Fiber**: 8g

- **Fat**: 5g

- **Iron**: 2mg (20% DV)

- **Manganese**: 0.6mg (25% DV)

** Presentation and Serving**:

- Serve Chana Dal Namkeen in small bowls or paper cones for individual servings.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest.

- Pair with hot tea or coffee for a classic tea-time experience or serve as part of a larger snack spread at gatherings.

** Conclusion**:

In conclusion, homemade Chana Dal Namkeen offers not only a delicious snacking option but also a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. With its rich blend of spices and nutritious chana dal, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a crunchy treat without compromising on taste or health benefits. Enjoy the process of making this snack and share it with friends and family for moments of joy and flavor.

By following these detailed steps and understanding the benefits of each ingredient, you can create a snack that is both satisfying and wholesome. Embrace the versatility of Chana Dal Namkeen by experimenting with different spices and serving ideas, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.