Crispy Delight from Andhra Pradesh: Chakodi Recipe

Chakodi, also known as Chekodilu, is a traditional South Indian snack that hails from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Known for its crunchy texture and spicy flavor, Chakodi is a ring-shaped treat made from rice flour and a few aromatic spices. It’s a perfect tea-time snack and often prepared during festivals and special occasions. Let’s explore how you can make this delicious snack at home with simple ingredients and a bit of patience.
Ingredients:
●   1 cup rice flour (preferably freshly ground)

●   1 tablespoon butter (softened)

●   1 teaspoon sesame seeds

●   1 teaspoon cumin seeds

●   1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

●   A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

●   Salt to taste

●   Water (as required to form the dough)

●   Oil for deep frying

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor:
●   1 tablespoon urad dal flour (for extra crispiness)

●   A few crushed curry leaves

Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1.   Sieve the flour: If using store-bought rice flour, sieve it to ensure a smooth texture. Freshly ground flour always yields better taste and crispness.

2.   Mix the spices: In a wide bowl, add rice flour, sesame seeds, cumin seeds, red chili powder, hing, and salt. Mix well.

3.   Add butter: Add softened butter to the flour mixture and mix using your fingers until it becomes crumbly.

4.   Form the dough: Gradually add warm water and knead into a soft but firm dough. The dough should be pliable but not sticky.

Step 2: Shape the Chakodi
1.   Make small balls: Pinch small portions of dough and roll them into tiny lemon-sized balls.

2.   Shape into rings: Take each ball and roll it into a thin rope (about 3 inches long), then join the ends to form a small ring. Press lightly to seal the ends.

Step 3: Deep Fry
1.   Heat the oil: Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium flame.

2.   Test the oil: Drop a small piece of dough in the oil. If it rises to the surface immediately, the oil is ready.

3.   Fry the chakodis: Gently slide in a few chakodis at a time. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry on medium flame until golden brown and crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

4.   Drain the oil: Remove the chakodis and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Cool and Store
Allow the chakodis to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They stay crisp and tasty for up to two weeks.
Tips:
●   Always fry on medium heat for even cooking.

●   If the chakodis break while shaping, add a little more water to the dough.

●   For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red chili powder.

●   Adding a spoon of urad dal flour can enhance the crunchiness.

Final Thoughts
Chakodi is a timeless snack that brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you're preparing it for a festive platter or just to enjoy with evening tea, this traditional recipe never fails to impress. Try it at home and bring a taste of Andhra into your kitchen.