Bakharwadi is a hot favorite in India among serious snackers! These are crunspy (crunchy & crispy) tiny bites filled with tangy, sweet and spicy flavors all rolled up in one. Perfect accompaniment with a cup of tea or even with most alcoholic beverages. This snack is famous both in Maharashtra and Gujarat but the Chitale brothers of Pune city in Maharashtra are best known for these delectable goodies.
These tiny rolls are deep fried and that's what makes them so tasty! In my attempt to healthify them and trying best not to lose the taste, I managed to develop quite a delicious substitute. I did use whole wheat flour in my recipe, but those of you who are happy to use All Purpose Flour (Maida) may certainly do so!
The Recipe ~
1 cup W.W.Flour (substitute with AP Flour if you like)
3/4 cup Chickpea Flour (Besan)
2 Tbsp oil
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
Filling~
1/2 cup dried grated coconut
1 Tbsp khus khus
1 Tbsp Sesame Seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds (saunf)
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp chilli powder (or more to taste)
1/2 tsp coriander powder
1/4 tsp cumin powder
1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt ( or to taste)
1/2 tsp oil
Others~
A little oil to brush on baking tray or cooking spray
1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
Knead a stiff dough and keep aside.
Preheat oven to 175c.
For the filling, heat pan, add oil and all the other ingredients, roast slightly. Use a coffee grinder to crush the mixture a little.
Make 3 equal parts of the dough, roll it out into a thin disc about 1 mm thick.
Spread some lemon juice and then some of the filling mixture. Make sure to leave about 1/2 cm on all sides.
Roll a cylinder and seal the edges. Cut into 1 cm rounds. Flat it out a little and place on a greased baking sheet.
Repeat with remaining dough and filling mixture.
Bake on one side for 15 minutes. Turn and bake other side for 15 minutes, stand it up and bake again for 15 minutes. Would need a total of 40-45 minutes of baking.
Make sure all sides are golden brown.
Let it cool completely. Store in an airtight container and enjoy your healthy Bakharwadi snack!
If you enjoyed reading this recipe, do give it a try. And would surely look forward to your feedback and comments!
Happy cooking ~
