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Boondi is a simple ingredient in the Indian culinary industry and it is used widely for various creations. This is usually made from chickpea or gram flour, which attains a complete texture and flavour when deep-fried. The batter created from the flour is fried in the shape of droplets, thus the name "boondi." These tiny droplets are quite versatile and are easily usable in various dishes.
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From savoury to sweet, from appetisers to desserts, there are countless ways to breathe new life into this humble ingredient. For those seeking savoury indulgence, leftover boondi can be transformed into tantalising chaats or crunchy toppings for salads and yoghurt-based dips. Its crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to creamy curries or hearty rice dishes, elevating them to new heights of culinary delight.
Boondi Raita
Boondi Raita is a delightful way to use leftover boondi. This refreshing dish combines crunchy boondi with creamy yoghurt, enhanced with spices like cumin, chaat masala, and salt. The addition of fresh coriander and mint leaves adds a vibrant touch, while a hint of black salt intensifies the flavours. The boondi soaks slightly in the yoghurt, offering a unique texture that is both crunchy and creamy. This raita pairs perfectly with biryani and parathas, or as a cooling side to spicy curries, making it a versatile and tasty addition to any meal.
Boondi Bhel
Boondi Bhel is a delightful twist on traditional Bhel, perfect for using up leftover boondi. This savoury snack combines crunchy boondi with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and fresh coriander. Tossed with tangy tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, and a sprinkle of chaat masala, it offers an explosion of flavours: sweet, tangy, and spicy. Garnish with sev and pomegranate seeds for added texture and freshness.
Boondi Curry
This curry features crisp boondi simmered in a rich, spiced yoghurt-based gravy. Ingredients include boondi, yoghurt, onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder. The result is a creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy curry with a unique texture. The boondi absorb the aromatic gravy, creating a burst of flavour in every bite. Serve this delicious curry with rice or flatbread for a satisfying meal.
Boondi Salad
Combining crisp, fried boondi with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, this salad bursts with vibrant flavours. Tossed with tangy lemon juice, chaat masala, and a hint of mint, the salad offers a refreshing taste, balancing the crunch of boondi with the juiciness of vegetables. Garnishing with fresh coriander and a sprinkle of spices adds an aromatic touch, making Boondi Salad a zesty, quick-to-prepare dish perfect for a light snack or a side.
Boondi Kheer
This rich and creamy dessert combines milk, sugar, and cardamom with leftover boondi, creating a unique texture and flavour. The soft, syrupy boondi melds beautifully with the smooth kheer, adding a hint of crunch and bursts of sweetness. Garnished with saffron strands, chopped nuts, and a touch of rose water, Boondi Kheer offers a luxurious taste experience.
Boondi Chaat
This quick and easy snack combines boondi with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and fresh coriander. Add a splash of tangy tamarind chutney, zesty green chutney, and a squeeze of lemon for a burst of flavours. Sprinkle chaat masala, salt, and roasted cumin powder for an extra kick. The result is a crunchy, spicy, and tangy treat that's perfect for any time of day, offering a delicious blend of textures and tastes that will tantalise your taste buds.
