Grocery
Savory Indian Lentil Snack Mix
What it is
This is a popular Indian snack made from chickpea flour and various spices. It has a crunchy texture and a complex flavor profile. The base is typically a fine sev, which is extruded chickpea flour noodles that are then fried until crisp. Various seasonings are added to create its distinctive taste. It is a common accompaniment to tea or as a standalone snack.
How people cook with it
Laund sev is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into other dishes.
- As a crunchy topping for chaat
- Mixed into savory snack blends
- Served alongside hot beverages
- As a flavorful addition to bhel puri
Laund sev is ready to eat straight from the package. It is often used as a component in more elaborate snack preparations. For instance, it can be crumbled and added to chaat recipes, providing a delightful crunch and spice. It is also frequently mixed with other savory snacks like roasted peanuts, puffed rice, and fried lentils to create a custom 'namkeen' or trail mix. Its inherent spiciness makes it a good counterpoint to sweeter elements in some dishes.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other sev varieties, laund sev often has a finer texture and a more pronounced blend of spices, including cumin and coriander. Some sev might be plainer, focusing solely on the chickpea flour taste, while laund sev is designed to be a more seasoned and complex snack experience right out of the bag.
Who it is for
Home cooks and snack enthusiasts who enjoy flavorful, crunchy Indian snacks will find this appealing.
How to keep the rest
To maintain its crispness, store any unused laund sev in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight. Properly sealed, it can retain its texture for several weeks.