Karapusa is a beloved South Indian snack that has won the hearts (and taste buds!) of generations. Crunchy, spicy, and perfectly satisfying, Karapusa is often found in festive platters, tea-time snacks, and traditional gift boxes. But have you ever wondered what exactly goes into making this delicious, crispy treat?
Let’s explore the ingredients, preparation, and variations of Karapusa—also known in other parts of India as Sev.
🍽️ What is Karapusa?
Karapusa (కారపూస in Telugu) is a deep-fried savory snack made primarily with chickpea flour (besan) and spices. It’s shaped into thin strands using a murukku/sev press and fried until golden and crispy. This snack is especially popular during festivals like Diwali and Sankranti, and is also served as a regular evening snack in many South Indian homes.
🧂 Main Ingredients of Karapusa
Here’s a basic list of what goes into making traditional Karapusa:
✅ 1. Besan (Gram Flour / Chickpea Flour)
The core ingredient, besan gives Karapusa its signature texture and color.
✅ 2. Rice Flour
Often added for extra crispiness and lightness in texture.
✅ 3. Red Chili Powder
For that spicy kick! You can adjust it according to your taste.
✅ 4. Ajwain (Carom Seeds) or Cumin Seeds
These not only add flavor but also aid in digestion.
✅ 5. Asafoetida (Hing)
A pinch adds a deep, savory aroma and enhances flavor.
✅ 6. Salt
Essential for taste.
✅ 7. Ghee or Hot Oil
A spoon of ghee or hot oil is usually mixed into the dough to make the karapusa extra crisp.
✅ 8. Water
Used to form a soft dough that can be easily passed through the sev press.
✅ 9. Oil for Deep Frying
The dough is pressed directly into hot oil and fried until crisp.
🍳 How Is Karapusa Made?
Here’s a quick overview of the traditional method:
Mix dry ingredients: Combine besan, rice flour, spices, and salt.
Add ghee or hot oil: This helps make the karapusa crisp.
Make a soft dough: Add water little by little until a smooth dough forms.
Load the dough into a sev press with a medium or fine disc.
Press into hot oil and deep fry until golden brown.
Cool and store in an airtight container.
🎉 Variations of Karapusa
Depending on the region and family traditions, Karapusa comes in many forms:
Thick or thin strands
Mild or extra spicy
With garlic, mint, or curry leaf flavors
Masala sev: With garam masala or chaat masala added
You’ll also find flavored versions like lemon sev, tomato sev, or palak (spinach) sev in stores.
🧡 Why Do People Love Karapusa?
Long Shelf Life: Stays fresh for weeks in an airtight container.
Perfect Tea-Time Snack: Great with chai or coffee.
Festival Favorite: A must-have in Diwali and Sankranti snack boxes.
Versatile: Can be eaten plain, added to chaat, or used as topping on upma and poha.
🛍️ Available in Stores & Homemade
While Karapusa is widely available in supermarkets and sweet shops across India, especially in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, homemade Karapusa has its own charm. You can control the spice levels, oil quality, and freshness.
📝 Final Thoughts
Karapusa is a timeless snack made primarily from gram flour, rice flour, and spices—deep-fried to crunchy perfection. Whether you enjoy it with your evening chai, gift it during festivals, or simply grab a handful on a busy afternoon, Karapusa is a taste of tradition and comfort.