by Fafda is a beloved Gujarati snack, known for its crisp, golden texture and mildly spiced flavor. Made from gram flour (besan) and deep-fried to perfection, this savory treat is a festive favorite, often paired with chutney or fried green chilies. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a crunchy bite, this detailed Fafda recipe will guide you to recreate this Gujarati classic at home. Let’s dive into this crispy delight!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
(Includes preparing the dough)
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
(Frying the fafda in batches)
Total Time
- 35 minutes
(Quick and satisfying for a fresh batch!)
Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)
This recipe makes approximately 20-25 fafda pieces (serves 4-5 people). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below:
- Calories: 1400 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 90g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 80g
- Carbohydrates: 120g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 0g (no added sugar)
- Sodium: 1600mg (varies based on salt and baking soda content)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (completely cholesterol-free!)
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Iron: 25% of Daily Value (DV)
- Calcium: 10% of DV
- Vitamin C: 5% of DV (from optional garnishes like chilies)
Note: Values may vary based on portion size, oil absorption, and specific ingredient brands.
Ingredients
For the Fafda Dough:
- 2 cups besan (gram flour) – sifted for smoothness
- 1/2 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds) – for flavor and digestion
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – for a golden hue
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder – adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida) – enhances flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – for crispiness
- 1 teaspoon salt – or to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil – for binding the dough
- Water – as needed to form a stiff dough (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil – enough for deep frying (about 2-3 cups, depending on pan size)
For Serving (Optional):
- Green chutney, papaya sambharo (grated raw papaya salad), or fried green chilies
Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Flat surface for rolling/shaping
- Deep frying pan or kadhai
- Slotted spoon
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups sifted besan, 1/2 teaspoon ajwain, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon hing, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Add 2 tablespoons oil and mix well with your fingers until the mixture feels crumbly.
- Gradually add water (start with 1/4 cup) and knead into a stiff, smooth dough. It should be firm, not soft or sticky, to ensure crisp fafda.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Shape the Fafda
- Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a large marble).
- On a clean, flat surface, take one dough ball and roll it between your palms into a thin, long cylinder (about 5-6 inches long).
- Place it on the surface and, using the base of your palm, press and stretch it forward into a thin, flat strip (about 1-2 mm thick and 6-8 inches long). Apply even pressure for uniform thickness.
- Repeat with the remaining dough balls, keeping the shaped strips aside. (No flour is needed for rolling; the oil in the dough prevents sticking.)
Step 3: Fry the Fafda
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai over medium heat. Test readiness by dropping a small piece of dough – it should sizzle and rise slowly.
- Carefully slide 3-4 fafda strips into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crisp, flipping once with a slotted spoon.
- Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat until all strips are fried.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve warm or at room temperature with green chutney, papaya sambharo, or fried green chilies for a traditional Gujarati experience.
- Pair it with jalebi for the classic “Fafda-Jalebi” combo enjoyed during festivals like Dussehra!
Benefits of Fafda
Fafda is more than just a tasty snack – it offers some surprising advantages! Here’s why you’ll enjoy it:
- Protein Boost: Gram flour provides plant-based protein, making it filling and energizing.
- Rich in Fiber: Besan aids digestion and supports gut health.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Digestive Aid: Ajwain and hing help relieve bloating and improve digestion.
- Quick Energy: The carbs and healthy fats from frying offer an instant energy lift.
- Festive Joy: A cultural treat that brings warmth and tradition to any occasion.
Note: As a fried snack, enjoy fafda in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
