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As the vibrant lights of Diwali illuminate the night, the air fills with the enticing aroma of spices wafting from kitchens across India. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up a batch of Authentic Bhajani Chakli—those delightful, spiral-shaped snacks that have a special place in my heart. The first crunch transports me back to my childhood, where my grandmother’s kitchen buzzed with chatter and laughter, and the promise of something delicious always lingered.

Perfectly crispy and lightly spiced, bhajani chakli is not just a snack but a celebration of flavors that brings families together. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply seeking a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of masala chai, this handmade goodness is sure to impress. But the best part? Despite the authentic taste, this recipe is surprisingly easy to master! Let’s dive into making these heavenly spirals that are destined to become a star at your Diwali table.

Why is Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli so special?

Tradition at Its Core: This recipe embodies the essence of Diwali, bringing the authentic flavors of India right to your kitchen.
Crispy Delight: Each bite offers a perfect crunch, making it irresistible.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll whip these up effortlessly, ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Versatile Snacking: Enjoy bhajani chakli on its own or pair it with chutneys and beverages for a delightful experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, they are sure to impress your family and friends during festive celebrations.
Dive into this recipe for a taste of tradition and love, and check out my Diwali recipes collection for more festive inspirations!

Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli Ingredients

Get ready to create these delightful spirals with this essential list!

For the Dough

Bhajani flour – 2 cups; provides the main structure for chakli—substitute with store-bought bhajani or a mix of rice and lentil flours if unavailable.
Hot oil – 2 tablespoons; used to enhance the dough’s texture; prefer using ghee or vegetable oil for extra richness.
Hot water – ¼ cup; helps in developing a smooth dough for those golden spirals.
Brown sesame seeds – 2 tablespoons; adds flavor and crunch—can substitute with white sesame seeds if needed.
Ajwain/carom seeds – 1½ teaspoons; offers a unique flavor; can be replaced with cumin seeds if desired.
Kashmiri red chili powder – 1 tablespoon; gives color and spice—adjust for your heat preference!
Ground turmeric – ¼ teaspoon; adds vibrant color and a slight earthiness.
Kosher salt – 2 teaspoons; enhances overall flavor to make your chakli irresistible.
Room temperature water – ½ cup; needed to adjust dough consistency for the perfect texture.

For Frying

Oil for frying – Sufficient amount; ensures chaklis are crispy without absorbing excess oil while cooking.

Get ready to enjoy these Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chaklis with your loved ones!

How to Make Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of bhajani flour, 2 tablespoons of hot oil, and ¼ cup of hot water. Add 1 tablespoon of Kashmiri red chili powder, 1½ teaspoons of ajwain, ¼ teaspoon of ground turmeric, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of brown sesame seeds. Gradually add ½ cup of room temperature water, kneading until a soft, smooth dough forms. Cover with a damp cloth to rest.
Set Up the Chakli Press: While the dough rests, heat oil in a kadhai (deep frying pan) over medium heat. Prepare your chakli press by fitting it with a star-shaped disc, ensuring it’s ready for action!
Shape the Chakli: Take a portion of the dough and form it into a cylinder to fit into the chakli press. Press gently while shaping circular spirals onto parchment paper, making sure to keep them about 4 inches in diameter.
Check Oil Temperature: Test the oil’s readiness by adding a small piece of dough. It should rise to the surface within 5-10 seconds—this means your oil is perfectly hot!
Fry the Chakli: Gently drop the chaklis into the hot oil, frying in small batches. Start on high heat for the first minute, then lower to medium heat. Fry for about 5-6 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crunchy.
Cool and Store: Carefully remove the fried chakli with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature.

Optional: Serve with spicy chutneys or alongside a hot cup of masala chai for the ultimate treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time during the festive rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first step of mixing all the dry ingredients and adding hot oil, but refrain from adding any water yet. Simply cover it with a damp cloth and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful spirals, allow the dough to come to room temperature before adding the necessary water to achieve the right consistency. This way, your chakli will be just as delicious and crispy when you fry them! Preparing ahead not only ensures you have more time to spend with loved ones but also makes your Diwali celebrations a breeze!

Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Let your culinary imagination run wild while enjoying these delicious variations.

Spicy Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or extra Kashmiri red chili powder to the dough for an extra kick.
Herb Infusion: Mix in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to elevate the aroma and taste.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate ¼ cup of grated cheese such as parmesan or cheddar for a rich, savory flavor that melts in your mouth.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped nuts like cashews or almonds in the dough for added texture and flavor.
Sweet Touch: Create a sweet version by adding 2 tablespoons of sugar to the dough, making it a perfect snack for those with a sweet tooth.
Baking Variation: For a healthier option, try baking instead of frying. Shape the chakli and place them on a baking sheet—spray lightly with oil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Colorful Version: Add 1 tablespoon of natural color powders like beetroot or spinach for vibrant hues that delight the eyes as much as the taste buds.
Flavored Oil: Experiment with flavored oils for frying by infusing your oil with garlic or herbs for a subtler taste enhancement.

Let the spirit of Diwali inspire you to explore these exciting variations, bringing joy and a touch of your personal flair to this beloved snack!

Expert Tips for Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli

Flour Sifting: Sift your bhajani flour before use to ensure a fine texture, preventing lumps that could affect the dough’s consistency.
Water Adjustment: Don’t hesitate to adjust water based on your flour’s fineness; freshly ground flour may absorb more moisture, so add it gradually.
Taste Test: Always taste the dough before pressing it into shapes. Proper seasoning is key to ensuring your chakli shines with flavor!
Oil Temperature: To avoid soggy chaklis, ensure the oil is adequately hot; if a small dough piece doesn’t rise quickly, wait a bit longer before frying.
Storage Savvy: Cool your chakli completely before storing in an airtight container. This helps retain their delicious crunch and prevents them from getting soft.

How to Store and Freeze Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli

Room Temperature: Store completely cooled chakli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crispy texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep the chakli fresh for up to a week, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container, but they might lose some crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chakli in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating: To refresh the texture, reheat chakli in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until crispy again. Enjoy snacking on your Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli whenever the cravings strike!

What to Serve with Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli?

Elevate your Diwali celebrations with the perfect accompaniments to these delightful, crispy spirals that embody tradition.

Spicy Mango Chutney: The sweet and tangy notes cut through the savory flavors, creating a delightful blend that’s simply irresistible.
Mint Coriander Chutney: This vibrant, refreshing dip adds a cool contrast to the spicy chakli, enhancing your snacking experience.
Masala Chai: A cup of steaming masala chai brings warmth and comfort, making each bite of chakli even more enjoyable on chilly evenings.
Puffed Rice Salad: Light and crunchy, this salad offers a fresh texture and complements the rich flavors of the chakli without overwhelming the palate.

Don’t forget to serve these delicious chaklis alongside the mouthwatering dips for an exceptional treat that your guests will love!

Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my bhajani flour is fresh enough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh bhajani flour should have a pleasant, nutty aroma and a fine texture. If you notice any rancid smell or larger particles in the flour, it’s best to sift it or use a fresher batch for your chakli.

How should I store my chakli to keep it crispy?
To maintain that irresistible crunch, store your completely cooled Diwali Authentic Bhajani Chakli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make your beloved snacks soft.

Can I freeze the chakli for later consumption?
Very! Freezing is an excellent option if you want to save some for later. Place the fried chaklis in a sealed freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they’re crispy again.

What should I do if my chakli isn’t crisp after frying?
If your chakli turns out soggy, it’s often due to the oil temperature being too low during frying. Ensure that the oil is hot enough before introduction—test with a small piece of dough; it should rise to the surface within 5-10 seconds. Additionally, make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature too much.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! While the traditional recipe uses bhajani flour, you can create a gluten-free variation by substituting it with a blend of rice flour and lentil flour. You can also look for gluten-free chakli flour available in stores, ensuring your snack is safe for those with dietary restrictions.

Is there a way to adjust the spice level in chakli?
Yes! If you prefer a milder taste, start with half the amount of Kashmiri red chili powder and adjust according to your preference. For those who love a kick, feel free to add more spice or even a dash of black pepper if you’re feeling adventurous!