Khichu: Steamed Spice, Street-Style Gujarati Snack!

Khichu is a soft, steamed, and spiced dough made from rice flour, cumin, green chili, and a hint of papad khar (alkaline salt) for its signature chew. Popular as an evening snack, it’s served hot, drizzled with oil and chili powder.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice flour
• 2–2.5 cups water
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1–2 green chilies, minced
• 1/2 tsp papad khar (or baking soda, optional)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp peanut oil
• Red chili powder for serving

Method:

1. Boil water in a thick-bottomed pan. Add cumin, green chilies, salt, papad khar. Bring to a rolling boil.
2. Reduce flame. Slowly stir in rice flour, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Mix well; dough thickens and leaves sides (like thick porridge).
4. Cover and steam-cook (in the same pot or in a steamer) for 3–4 minutes.
5. To serve, drizzle with peanut oil and sprinkle red chili powder. Eat hot with masala.

Tips:

• Papad khar gives iconic texture, but baking soda can be used.
• Can be made with jowar or wheat flour for variations.