Chef Way For this version of chevda, an Indian snack mix, Jerry Traunfeld tosses puffed rice cereal with coconut, raisins, nuts and a variety of spices and flavorings, including fresh curry leaves and amchoor (tart dried-mango powder). Easy Way This sweet-salty bar mix comes together beautifully without the amchoor and curry leaves—just substitute lemon juice and bay leaves. More Tasty Snacks
How to Make It
Preheat the oven to 325° and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, toss the puffed rice with the cashews, peanuts, coconut flakes and raisins.
In a small saucepan, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the mustard seeds and cook over moderately high heat until they begin to pop, about 1 minute. Add the fennel and cumin seeds, crushed red pepper and bay leaves and toast, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the corn syrup, lemon juice and salt and bring to a boil. Drizzle the hot syrup over the cereal and nuts and toss with a spoon until evenly coated.
Spread the mixture on the baking sheet and bake, stirring once or twice, until the nuts are golden, about 20 minutes. Let cool; discard the bay leaves. Transfer to a bowl and serve.