Spicy Corn Flakes Snack Mix with Nuts and Dried Fruits
This Spicy Corn Flakes Snack Mix, also known as Chivda, is a delightful Indian snack that perfectly balances the crunch of corn flakes with the richness of nuts and the sweetness of dried fruits. It's a versatile fusion of textures and flavors, making it an ideal companion for your tea time or as a midday pick-me-up. Get creative with the selection of nuts and seeds; options like cashews, walnuts, and pistachios bring a special touch. For a unique twist, try adding fresh curry leaves or dried fruits like diced kiwi for an unexpected flavor burst. This delicious snack mix is quick to prepare and can be stored for up to two weeks, ensuring you always have a tasty treat on hand. Enjoy it at any time of the day, whether for a snack or as an accompaniment to your lunch!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Oil
2 tablespoons (None)
Cumin Seed
1/2 teaspoon (Whole)
Shelled Peanuts or Mixed Nuts
1/2 cup (Chopped (if large nuts are used))
Golden Raisin
1/4 cup (None)
Red Chili Powder
1 teaspoon (To taste)
Turmeric Powder
1/3 teaspoon (None)
Kosher Salt
To taste (1 teaspoon suggested) (None)
Sugar
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Lime Juice
1 teaspoon (Freshly squeezed)
Corn Flakes
3 cups (None)
Instructions
1
In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3
Stir in the shelled peanuts or mixed nuts, along with the raisins (or your choice of dried fruit), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the nuts are slightly golden.
4
Lower the heat to very low and carefully mix in the red chili powder, turmeric powder, kosher salt, and sugar. Stir continuously for about 1 minute.
5
Remove from heat and add the lime juice, closely watching for oil splatter.
6
Slowly fold in the corn flakes, ensuring they are evenly coated with the spice mixture. Keep the pan over low heat and stir gently for 3-4 minutes.
7
Once well mixed and the corn flakes are warm, transfer the mixture to a large bowl and let it cool completely before storing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Corn Flakes Snack Mix?
This is a delightful Indian snack that perfectly balances the crunch of corn flakes with the richness of nuts and the sweetness of dried fruits.
What is another name for this snack?
This snack is also known as Chivda, a popular Indian savory mixture.
What are the primary flavors in this recipe?
The recipe balances savory crunch, richness from nuts, and sweetness from dried fruits with a spicy kick.
What nuts are suggested for this mix?
Options like cashews, walnuts, pistachios, and peanuts bring a special touch to this snack mix.
Can I add seeds to this recipe?
Yes, you can get creative and add various seeds to enhance the texture and flavor.
What unique twists can I add to the snack?
You can try adding fresh curry leaves or dried fruits like diced kiwi for an unexpected flavor burst.
How long can I store this snack?
This delicious snack mix can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
When is the best time to enjoy this snack?
It is an ideal companion for tea time, a midday pick-me-up, or even as an accompaniment to your lunch.
How do I start the cooking process?
Begin by heating two tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat until it is shimmering.
How long should I cook the cumin seeds?
Add the cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.
How long do I sauté the nuts and raisins?
Sauté the nuts and raisins for 1-2 minutes until the nuts are slightly golden.
What is the secret to adding spices without burning them?
Lower the heat to very low before mixing in the red chili powder, turmeric, salt, and sugar.
How long should I stir the spices?
Stir the spice mixture continuously for about 1 minute on low heat.
When do I add the lime juice?
Remove the pan from the heat first, then add the lime juice while watching closely for any oil splatter.
How do I incorporate the corn flakes?
Slowly fold in the corn flakes to ensure they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
How long do I heat the corn flakes?
Keep the pan over low heat and stir the corn flakes gently for 3-4 minutes until they are warm.
What should I do before storing the snack?
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and let it cool completely before putting it into a storage container.
Is this snack vegan?
Yes, based on the ingredients like oil, nuts, corn flakes, and spices, this recipe is vegan-friendly.
How much corn flakes do I need?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of corn flakes.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
Yes, you can use freshly squeezed lime juice or lemon juice to provide the necessary tanginess.
What kind of salt is best for this recipe?
Kosher salt is suggested, but you can use any salt and adjust it to your taste.
What is the role of turmeric powder?
Turmeric powder provides a beautiful golden color and a mild earthy flavor to the mix.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the chivda?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of red chili powder to suit your personal spice tolerance.
Why is sugar added to a spicy snack?
A half teaspoon of sugar helps balance the heat of the chili and the acidity of the lime juice.
Is this recipe quick to make?
Yes, it is described as a quick-to-prepare snack that is easy to make at home.
What kind of raisins should I use?
Golden raisins are recommended for their sweetness and texture.
Should the nuts be chopped?
If you are using large nuts, it is recommended to chop them before sautéing.
How do I prevent the corn flakes from getting soggy?
Ensuring the mixture is cooled completely before storing prevents moisture buildup and keeps the flakes crunchy.
Can I use walnuts?
Yes, walnuts are specifically mentioned as a creative nut selection for this recipe.
What is the texture of this snack?
It features a fusion of textures, specifically a satisfying crunch from the corn flakes and nuts.