Masala peanuts are a crunchy, spicy snack that’s bursting with flavor – we’re big fans in this house! Even the kids love them.
Traditionally, masala peanuts are made by coating raw peanuts in a gram flour batter and deep frying them until crisp. While delicious, frying uses a lot of oil.
In this post, you’ll learn healthier ways to make masala peanuts, using methods like air frying, microwaving, and oven-baking that require less oil.
Let’s dive in and learn how to make this addictive snack in a healthier way!
Ingredients for Masala Peanuts
Here’s what you’ll need to make masala peanuts:
- 1 cup raw peanuts – The base of this crunchy snack.
- ½ cup besan (gram flour) – This gives the peanuts their crispy coating.
- 2 tablespoons rice flour – Adds extra crunch to the coating.
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste – For a pungent, flavorful marinade.
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder – Adjust according to your spice preference.
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder – Adds color and a mild earthy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garam masala – A fragrant spice blend for depth.
- ½ teaspoon dried mango powder (amchur) – For a slight tanginess.
- ½ teaspoon chaat masala – Enhances the flavor with a savory kick.
- ½ teaspoon dried mint powder – Optional, for a refreshing hint.
- ½ teaspoon black salt (or regular salt) – Adds a unique, salty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons water – To help bind the flour mixture to the peanuts.
- 1 tablespoon oil (plus more for frying or air frying) – Helps in cooking and binding the spices to the peanuts.
Making Masala Peanuts
Now that you have your ingredients ready, here’s how to make masala peanuts at home.
We’ll go through each step, from preparing the peanuts to cooking them using different methods: frying, air frying, or microwaving.
Preparing Masala Peanuts
- Prepare the peanuts: Place the raw peanuts in a bowl, add 1 cup of water, and let them soak for two minutes. Drain the peanuts thoroughly.
- Add the marinade: Mix 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste into the peanuts. Massage the mixture into the peanuts and let them sit for five minutes to absorb the flavors.
Making the Spice Mix
- In a small bowl, combine:
- ½ teaspoon dried mango powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon chaat masala
- ½ teaspoon dried mint powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black salt
- Mix well and set aside for later.
Coating the Peanuts
- In a separate bowl, mix the following dry ingredients:
- ½ cup gram flour
- 2 tablespoons rice flour
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Add the dry flour mixture to the peanuts and toss them well. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of water to help the flour stick to the peanuts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Be careful not to add too much water.
Now that your peanuts are ready, you can choose one of the following cooking methods: frying, air frying, or microwaving.
Cooking Masala Peanuts
Frying Method (Traditional)
- Heat oil in a deep pan on high. Once hot, reduce the heat to low.
- Carefully add the coated peanuts to the oil, making sure to separate any peanuts that are stuck together.
- Fry the peanuts on low heat. Once they start floating in the oil, stir gently and increase the heat to medium. Fry until golden brown and crisp.
- Transfer the fried peanuts to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- While the peanuts are still warm, sprinkle them with the prepared spice mix and toss to coat. Let them cool completely before storing them.
Air Frying Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 340°F (170°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil.
- Place the coated peanuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry the peanuts at 340°F (170°C) for 3-4 minutes. Remove the basket, stir the peanuts, and return to the fryer.
- Increase the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for another 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the peanuts to a plate, sprinkle with the spice mix, and toss to coat. Allow them to cool fully before storing.
Microwave Method
- Grease the bottom of a microwave-safe dish with a little oil, and add the flour-coated peanuts in an even layer.
- Drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of oil over the peanuts and sprinkle the spice mix on top.
- Microwave the peanuts on high for 1 minute. Stir, then microwave for another 2 minutes.
- Let the peanuts cool, as they will become crunchier as they cool. Store in an airtight container once cooled.
Tips for Perfect Masala Peanuts
- Frying tip: Don’t stir the peanuts immediately after adding them to the oil. Wait until they start floating to prevent the coating from falling off.
- Spice immediately: Sprinkle the spice mix onto the peanuts while they’re still hot to ensure the flavors stick.
- Batch cooking: Avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Homemade rice flour: If you can’t find rice flour, grind rice in a blender to make your own or substitute with cornstarch in a 1:1 ratio.
- Customize the spice mix: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste preference for a personalized flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Masala peanuts are perfect on their own as a crunchy snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
You can also use them to make masala peanut chaat by mixing them with chopped tomatoes, onions, chilies, cilantro, chaat masala, and lemon juice for a tangy, spicy dish.
Storing Masala Peanuts
Once the peanuts have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to one month, making them a great snack to keep on hand.
Don’t forget to label the container with the storage date!
We think you’ll love this masala puffed rice too – take a look!
Final Thoughts
Masala peanuts are a flavorful, easy-to-make snack that can be cooked using traditional or healthier methods like air frying and microwaving.
Whichever method you choose, the result is a crispy, savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy personalizing the spice mix, and make this delicious snack a regular part of your snacking routine!
