Telvoru
A classic Gujarati tea-time snack, Telvoru are crispy, savory, deep-fried discs made from spiced whole wheat flour. Known for their wonderfully long shelf life, they are a perfect travel companion or a delicious, crunchy treat to store and enjoy with chai.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the atta, suji, ajwain (lightly crush between your palms to release flavor), turmeric powder, red chili powder, hing, and salt. Whisk to combine all dry ingredients evenly.
- c.Add the 2 tablespoons of oil for the dough (this is called 'moyan'). Rub the oil into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for a crispy texture.
- d.Gradually add small amounts of water and knead into a very stiff and firm dough. The dough should be tighter than a regular chapati dough.
- e.Cover the dough with a damp cloth or a lid and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Shape the Telvoru
- b.After the dough has rested, knead it again for a minute until smooth.
- c.Divide the dough into 20-24 small, equal-sized balls.
- d.Take one ball and roll it into a small disc, about 2-3 inches in diameter. It should be slightly thicker than a puri.
- e.Using a fork, prick the entire surface of the rolled disc 5-6 times. This is essential to prevent it from puffing up like a puri during frying.
- f.Repeat the process for all the dough balls. Keep the rolled discs covered with a cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Telvoru
- b.Heat the oil for deep frying in a kadai or a deep pan over a medium flame. The oil should be moderately hot, not smoking.
- c.To test the oil, drop a tiny piece of dough into it. It should sizzle and rise to the surface steadily, not instantly.
- d.Carefully slide 3-4 rolled discs into the hot oil at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- e.Reduce the flame to low-medium and fry the telvoru, flipping them occasionally. Cook them patiently for about 5-7 minutes per batch, until they are a deep golden brown and feel crisp.
- f.Frying on a lower flame is the key to making them perfectly crisp all the way through.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cool and Store
- b.Once golden and crisp, use a slotted spoon to remove the telvoru from the oil, letting any excess oil drip back into the pan.
- c.Place them on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
- d.Let them cool down completely to room temperature. They will become even crispier as they cool.
- e.Serve immediately with hot tea, yogurt, or a spicy pickle. Store the rest in an airtight container.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The dough must be stiff. A soft dough will absorb excess oil, making the telvoru greasy and less crispy.
- 2Do not skip pricking the discs with a fork. This prevents them from puffing up and ensures a flat, cracker-like texture.
- 3Fry on a consistent low to medium flame. High heat will brown them quickly on the outside while leaving the inside soft and uncooked.
- 4Ensure the telvoru are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness for weeks.
- 5For extra flavor, you can lightly crush the ajwain seeds between your palms before adding them to the flour.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Add 1 tablespoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) or 1 tablespoon of white sesame seeds to the dough for a different flavor profile and texture.
SpiceSpice
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
FlourFlour
For a different texture, you can replace 1/4 cup of atta with bajra (pearl millet) flour or jowar (sorghum) flour.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Made with whole wheat flour (atta), Telvoru provides dietary fiber, which is essential for promoting healthy digestion and maintaining bowel regularity.
Aids Digestion
The inclusion of traditional spices like ajwain (carom seeds) and hing (asafoetida) is known to help prevent indigestion, gas, and bloating.
Provides Energy
As a carbohydrate-rich snack, Telvoru offers a quick and sustained source of energy, making it a suitable snack to combat midday fatigue.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of 5 pieces of Telvoru contains approximately 280-320 calories, primarily from carbohydrates and the fat absorbed during deep frying.
