Grocery
Savory Fried Chickpea Flour Snacks
What it is
Gathiya are a popular Indian snack made from chickpea flour (besan). The dough is typically extruded through a special press to create long, thin, and often twisted strands. These strands are then deep-fried until they become crispy and golden brown. They have a satisfying crunch and a mild, savory flavor that makes them highly addictive. Gathiya are a staple in many Indian households and are enjoyed by people of all ages.
How people cook with it
These crunchy snacks are perfect for munching on their own or as a base for more elaborate chaats.
- Enjoy as a standalone snack
- Add to bhel puri
- Serve with tea
- Incorporate into sev puri
Gathiya are ready to eat straight from the package. Their inherent crispness makes them ideal for immediate consumption. For a more complex flavor experience, they can be combined with other ingredients to create popular Indian street food dishes like bhel puri or sev puri. In these preparations, the gathiya provide a textural contrast and absorb the tangy and spicy chutneys and other additions. They are also commonly served alongside hot beverages, especially during monsoon season.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other chickpea flour snacks like sev, gathiya are typically thicker and have a more substantial, chewy crunch. Their shape is also distinct, often appearing as twisted or irregular strands rather than uniform threads. This difference in texture and form provides a unique eating experience.
Who it is for
Anyone looking for a flavorful and crunchy snack will appreciate gathiya.
How to keep the rest
To maintain their crispness, store any leftover gathiya in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid exposure to moisture, as this can make them soft and lose their appealing crunch. Properly stored, they can retain their texture for several weeks.