Gujarati Khichu is a simple and delicious snack made from rice flour and spices. It's popular in Gujarat and is often enjoyed as a quick and satisfying treat. A step-by-step guide on how to make Gujarati Khichu:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ajwain seeds (carom seeds)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Freshly grated coconut (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice Flour Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the rice flour, cumin seeds, ajwain seeds, sesame seeds, asafoetida, and green chilies.
- Add salt to taste and mix all the dry ingredients well.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once it's boiling, reduce the heat to low, and slowly add the rice flour mixture, stirring continuously.
- Keep stirring the mixture until it thickens and starts to come together into a dough-like consistency. It should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Cook the Dough:
- Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The dough should become smooth and slightly translucent.
4. Shape the Khichu:
- While the dough is still hot, wet your hands with some water to prevent sticking, and shape the Khichu into small, round or oval dumplings.
5. Prepare the Seasoning:
- In a small pan, heat the vegetable oil. Add a pinch of asafoetida, cumin seeds, and sesame seeds.
- Once the seeds start to splutter and release their aroma, remove the pan from the heat.
6. Season the Khichu:
- Drizzle the prepared seasoning over the shaped Khichu dumplings. Be cautious as the oil may sizzle when it comes into contact with the Khichu.
7. Serve:
- Gujarati Khichu is typically served hot, garnished with freshly grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Gujarati Khichu as a delicious and comforting snack. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with a hint of spice and a comforting doughy texture.