Karasev

 

Karasev is a spicy crispy crunchy and traditional Indian savory snack made with besan flour, rice flour, and masala spices. It's a popular snack that is often enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or as an accompaniment to a traditional meal. 

In Indian culture, Karasev holds a special place. It is often prepared during festive occasions and celebrations, Karasev is traditionally made at home, bringing families together as they collaborate on the preparation process. 

The art of making Karasev can be traced back to ancient times, with its origins deeply rooted in South Indian cuisine, especially in Tamil Nadu. It is believed that Karasev was initially prepared as a crispy accompaniment to various rice dishes and curries. Over time, its popularity spread to other regions, and it has become a staple snack in many parts of India. Different states and communities put their own spin on the snack, resulting in a wide range of flavors and textures. Today, Karasev comes in several forms, ranging from thin and crispy strands to thicker, more heavily spiced versions.

The beauty of Karasev lies in its simplicity. The main ingredients include besan (gram flour), rice flour, and a blend of aromatic spices. Additional ingredients such as chili powder, asafoetida, and garlic paste are often used to enhance the flavor profile. The most popular varieties of karasev are Poondu karasev ie garlic karasev and pepper karasev.In this recipe, I have used both garlic paste and pepper powder to enhance the flavor profile. You may skip either one of the ingredients and make whichever combination you like.

To make Karasev, the dry ingredients are mixed together before adding hot oil to form a soft dough. This dough is then passed through a press or Murukku or chakli maker fitted with a three-hole perforated plate, creating spiraled strands. These delicate spirals are fried until they turn golden brown and crispy. The end result is a batch of delectable Karasev ready to be devoured! In many Indian households, it is customary to prepare Karasev during festivals like Diwali, Navratri, etc.

Karasev pairs perfectly with a wide range of beverages like chai and coffee as an evening snack.

While Karasev may not be considered a healthy food, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Made primarily from chickpea flour, it contains a good amount of protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like iron and calcium. However, it's important to note that Karasev is typically deep-fried, so moderation is key to enjoying its flavors without going overboard. Indulging in Karasev occasionally won't cause any harm, but it's essential to keep moderation in mind. The high oil content and deep-frying process can make it calorie-dense, so it's best enjoyed as a treat rather than a staple snack. 

So, the next time you're craving a snack that's crispy, flavorful, and full of cultural significance, reach for a plate of Karasev. With its rich history, diverse variations, and simple yet delectable flavors, it's a snack that truly embodies the essence of Indian cuisine. Check out how to make this delicious spicy karasev recipe below.

Ingredients 

Besan flour (kadalai maavu)-1 cup

Rice flour-1/2 cup

Turmeric powder-1/4 tsp

Pepper powder-1 tsp

Red chilli powder-3/4-1 tsp 

Salt / உப்பு-1/2-3/4 tsp or to taste

Asafoetida-1/4 tsp

Cumin seeds -1 1/2 tsps 

Hot oil / melted butter-1 tbsp 

Garlic paste-2 tbsps or according to taste

Curry leaves few

Oil -for deep frying 

Recipe Video