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A quintessential Indian appetizer, Masala Papad features a crispy, fire-roasted lentil cracker (papad) generously topped with a zesty mix of finely chopped onions, tomatoes, herbs, and spices. This crunchy, tangy, and savory snack is ready in minutes, making it the perfect crowd-pleasing starter for any meal or gathering.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Masala Topping
Roast the Papad
Assemble and Serve Immediately
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A quintessential Indian appetizer, Masala Papad features a crispy, fire-roasted lentil cracker (papad) generously topped with a zesty mix of finely chopped onions, tomatoes, herbs, and spices. This crunchy, tangy, and savory snack is ready in minutes, making it the perfect crowd-pleasing starter for any meal or gathering.
This indian recipe takes 15 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 117.6 calories per serving with 5.01g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for snack or appetizer.
Add finely chopped cucumber, grated carrot, or boiled corn kernels to the masala topping for extra crunch and flavor. Pomegranate arils can also add a sweet and tangy burst.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of green chili or add a pinch of black pepper powder to the topping.
For a modern twist, sprinkle some grated cheese (like Amul or cheddar) over the masala topping before serving.
Instead of roasting, deep-fry the papad in hot oil for a few seconds until it's golden and crisp. This version is more indulgent and commonly found in restaurants.
The base of the dish, urad dal papad, is made from lentils, which are a good source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
The fresh topping of onions, tomatoes, and coriander leaves is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Spices used in the topping, such as those found in chaat masala (like cumin and black salt), are known to aid digestion and can help prevent indigestion.
One serving of Masala Papad, as per this recipe, contains approximately 95-110 calories. The exact count can vary based on the size of the papad and the amount of sev used.
Masala Papad can be a relatively healthy snack, especially when the papad is roasted instead of fried. It's low in calories and provides some protein from the lentils. However, papads are high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation, especially by those monitoring their salt intake.
It is not recommended. The salt and lemon juice will draw out moisture from the onions and tomatoes, making the topping watery and soggy. For best results, chop the vegetables in advance but mix everything together just before you are ready to roast the papads and serve.
You can easily roast papad in a microwave. Place it on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 45-60 seconds, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, you can place it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 1-2 minutes until crisp.
The key is to assemble and serve immediately. Also, ensure your tomatoes are properly deseeded to minimize moisture in the topping. Prepare the topping and roast the papads simultaneously so you can serve them the moment they are ready.