farali chivda

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What is farali chivda ? Glossary, Uses | 

Farali Chivda is a popular Indian snack, particularly significant during Hindu fasting periods (vrat or upvas) such as Navratri, Ekadashi, or Shivratri. The term "Farali" refers to foods that are permissible to eat during these fasts, which typically exclude grains, lentils, and certain vegetables. "Chivda" generally refers to flattened rice or a savory mixture made with flattened ingredients. However, in the context of Farali Chivda, the base ingredient is usually not flattened rice, as rice is often avoided during fasting. Instead, it's a delightful medley of fried or roasted ingredients that adhere to the fasting guidelines.

 

The primary components of Farali Chivda typically include thinly sliced and deep-fried potatoes (aloo lachha or batata sev), which provide the crispy base. Mixed with these are various nuts such as peanuts (moongphali), cashews (kaju), and almonds (badam), which add a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Dried fruits like raisins (kishmish) are also commonly included, lending a touch of sweetness and chewiness to the mixture. To enhance the flavor profile, Farali Chivda is seasoned with spices that are allowed during fasting, such as rock salt (sendha namak), black pepper (kali mirch), red chili powder (lal mirch), and sometimes a hint of sugar. Curry leaves (kadi patta) and green chilies (hari mirch), often fried until crisp, contribute aromatic and spicy notes.

 

The preparation of Farali Chivda involves deep-frying or roasting the individual ingredients separately until they achieve a perfect level of crispness. The potatoes are usually grated or thinly sliced and then fried until golden brown and brittle. Nuts are roasted or fried to bring out their flavor and crunchiness. Once all the components are prepared, they are combined and seasoned with the permissible spices and sometimes a touch of sweetness. The key is to balance the savory, spicy, and sweet elements to create a well-rounded and addictive snack.

 

In India, Farali Chivda serves as a readily available and satisfying snack option for those observing fasts. During fasting periods, when regular meals are restricted, this chivda provides a source of energy and helps to curb hunger pangs. Its crunchy texture and flavorful mix make it a palatable alternative to bland fasting foods. It's often enjoyed during tea time or as a light meal replacement. The combination of carbohydrates from potatoes, healthy fats from nuts, and the energy from dried fruits makes it a sustaining snack during these times of dietary restrictions.

 

Beyond fasting, Farali Chivda can also be enjoyed as a general savory snack. Its unique combination of textures and flavors appeals to many, regardless of whether they are observing a fast. It's a popular homemade snack and is also readily available in stores, especially during festive seasons. Some people even incorporate it into other dishes, such as adding it to fruit chaats for a crunchy and savory element, or using it as a topping for yogurt-based dishes.

 

In conclusion, Farali Chivda is a versatile and delicious Indian snack primarily consumed during fasting periods. Made with fried or roasted potatoes, nuts, and dried fruits, and seasoned with permissible spices, it offers a satisfying and flavorful alternative to regular snacks. Its uses extend beyond fasting, as it is enjoyed by many as a tasty and crunchy treat at any time. The careful balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, along with the variety of textures, makes Farali Chivda a beloved snack in Indian households, particularly in western India.

 

 

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Culinary uses of farali chivda

 

 

 

 

 

fasting recipes using farali chivda


 

farali misal recipe | upvas misal Indian snack | Maharashtrian upvasachi farali misal | quick upvas snack | Potato cubes are cooked with an out of-the-world masala that combines peanuts, coconut and coriander. This gives the Maharashtrian upvasachi farali misal a wonderful flavour. 


 

vrat ka dahi vada | falahari dahi vada | upvas dahi vada recipe |  Here upvas dahi vada recipe is made from samu and potatoes which can be relished during fasting. Who says a person cannot feast when fasting! Faral means "fast" and vrat ka dahi vada is designed specifically to satisfy the craving for those who want something chatpata during fasting. 

How to store farali chivda

 


 

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