Made by dry roasting peanuts that are then seasoned with a spice mixture, this popular snack is famously found in bakeries and at street stalls all around Karnataka. It is nutritious and a good time pass snack. How it got its name? well, some say its because of the way the peanuts are split (apparently the Indian National Congress party split in late 1960’s) while some say its because the split pods resemble the Gandhi cap worn by the Indian National Congress party workers. Whatever the reason maybe for the naming of this dish, one thing I can assure you, THIS IS ADDICTIVE.

Ingredients:

• Peanuts – 500 grams.
• Red chili powder – 3 Tsp ( or adjust as per your spice level ).
• Black pepper powder – 1 Tsp ( or adjust as per your spice level ).
• Asafoetida(Hing) – 1 Tsp.
• Turmeric powder – 1/2 Tsp.
• Curry leaves – 8 – 10 sprigs.
• Oil – 2 Tbsp.
• Salt to taste.

Method :

1. In a thick bottomed kadai dry roast the raw peanuts on a medium low flame until they turn light brown and start crackling. Take care not to burn the peanuts.
2. Cool the roasted peanuts and remove the skin by rubbing them between your hands.Apply pressure to split them into halves. Little bits of skin, if left over is perfectly fine.
3. Heat 2 Tbsp oil in a kadai on a low flame. Add curry leaves and fry until crisp.
4. Now add red chili powder, asafoetida, pepper powder, turmeric powder and salt. Give a quick stir, make sure not to burn the powders.
5. Now immediately add the peanuts  and mix well.
6. Stir and fry for a few more minutes on a very low flame. The masala has to coat the peanuts well. Switch off the flame and keep aside to cool.
7. Once cooled gently crush the curry leaves well between your fingers. Doing this will help in blending the curry leaves well with peanuts.
8. Serve it along with any cold or hot drinks.

Notes:

Peanuts can be roasted in the microwave. In a microwave safe bowl add peanuts and microwave on high for 5 – 6 minutes . Tossing them over every minute until they are roasted well.