Snack time is something we all look forward to. There’s nothing quite like the joy of munching on crispy, spicy bites on a rainy day, and if these dishes are home-made, it’s all the more better. Those who are fond of South Indian food will know that many regional recipes of snacks in India can completely bowl you over and make snack time your favourite part of the day. Are you looking for different and fascinating variations to add to your repertoire of snack recipes? Or do you want to bask in the glory at your next kitty party or cocktail party? Well, the Chakodi is the one for you. An all-time favourite savoury snack, the Chakodi is one of the famous and traditional crunchy snacks from Andhra Pradesh. This round, crispy and spicy delight makes a delectable pair with your hot evening tea or coffee. It can also be given as an after school snack for kids or you can fill your kid’s box with this crispy delight for their short break to school. Also known as Chekodilu or, Chekodi in telugu, Ring Murukku in Tamil or Kodubale in Kannada, it is one of the tastiest snacks you’ll find in South India. Chakodi is very easy to prepare at home snacks with just a few ingredients. Made primarily with rice flour batter, moong dal, red chili powder, cumin seeds and sesame seeds, it can optionally be flavoured with ajwain or black pepper and a dash of hing. Apart from being enjoyed as an evening snack, Chakodilu or Chakodi is also savoured during festivities, especially during Dusshera and Diwali. Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday) is another festival celebrated with Chakodi as a special prasadham. Golden in shade, speckled with spots of white sesame, moong dal and cumin, crunchy with an irresistible addictive taste – that’s Chakodi for you! When done right, each Chakodi is light as a feather and crisp. There are many variations to prepare Chakodi like replacing the chilli powder with green chilli paste or green chilli-coriander leaves paste. Addition of ajwain is optional, but it unquestionably adds on to the taste. It is better to avoid cumin and moong dal if adding ajwain and use red chilli powder instead for a flavoursome Chakodi.
