Chilli Garelu holds a significant cultural value in South India, particularly in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. It is a traditional snack that has been passed down through generations and is often enjoyed during festive occasions or as an evening snack.
The crispy, golden-brown disc of Chilli Garelu, with the spicy aroma of green chillies and cumin makes everyone drool over it. With every bite, the crispy exterior of the garelu gives way to a spicy and flavorful filling, sending your taste buds into a frenzy of deliciousness. The perfect balance of heat and flavor in every bite makes it hard to resist reaching for another Chilli Garelu.
The dipping of garelu into a tangy and refreshing coconut chutney or a spicy tomato chutney, elevating the flavors to a whole new level. The coolness of the chutney perfectly complements the spiciness of the garelu, creating a mouthwatering combination that you won’t be able to get enough of.
If we tempt you, here’s a recipe to help your cravings 😉
Ingredients:
- 1 cup urad dal (black gram)
- 3-4 green chillies, finely chopped
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Soak urad dal in water for 4-5 hours or overnight. Drain the water and grind the dal into a smooth batter, adding a little water as required.
- In a mixing bowl, add the ground dal batter, finely chopped green chillies, cumin seeds, and salt. Mix well until everything is combined evenly.
- Heat oil in a deep-frying pan over medium heat. Take a small amount of batter in your hand and flatten it slightly to form a disc shape. Make a small hole in the center using your thumb.
- Gently drop the prepared discs into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Once cooked, remove the garelu from the oil and place them on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
- Serve hot with coconut chutney or any other dipping sauce of your choice.
While Chilli Garelu is high in calories and fat, it does contain some nutrients as well. The green chillies used in the filling are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the black gram used in the batter provides protein and fiber.
Overall, Chilli Garelu can be enjoyed as a part of a healthy and balanced diet when consumed in moderation. It is important to be mindful of its high-fat content and make healthier choices wherever possible to ensure optimal health and wellbeing. So no matter how delicious it is remember to consume it in moderation and you’ll be just fine.
