Sunflower Chana Mix
A crunchy, savory, and protein-packed snack made with roasted chickpeas and sunflower seeds. Lightly spiced with cumin and black salt, it's a perfect healthy bite for any time of day.
For 4 servings
Toast the sunflower seeds.
In a dry non-stick pan over medium-low heat, add the sunflower seeds. Toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are lightly golden and fragrant.
TIPKeep the heat low to prevent the seeds from burning, which can make them taste bitter.Combine all ingredients.
Turn off the heat. Immediately add the roasted chana, cumin powder, black salt, turmeric powder, and optional red chili powder to the hot pan. Stir everything together for about a minute until the seeds and chana are well-coated with spices.
TIPThe residual heat from the pan is enough to toast the spices and help them adhere to the chana and seeds.Cool and store.
Spread the mixture on a plate and let it cool down completely to room temperature. This will ensure it stays crispy. Once cooled, store in an airtight container.
TIPDo not store the mix while it's warm, as condensation will make it soggy.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Maintain the Crunch: Ensure the mix is completely cool before transferring to a jar. Storing it warm will create moisture and make it lose its crunch.
- 2Spice it Your Way: Feel free to add other spices like a pinch of amchur (dry mango powder) for tanginess or chaat masala for a more complex flavor.
- 3Don't Skip the Black Salt: Black salt (kala namak) gives this snack its characteristic tangy, slightly sulfurous flavor. Regular salt won't provide the same taste.
- 4Buy the Right Chana: Look for 'bhuna chana' or 'roasted chickpeas' in Indian grocery stores. They should be dry, crunchy, and typically come without skin.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy snack. It's rich in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and healthy fats. The selenium from sunflower seeds is particularly beneficial for thyroid health, making it a great alternative to fried or sugary snacks.
