Makai no Chevdo
A delightful Gujarati snack made from grated sweet corn, bursting with sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a light meal or an afternoon snack, especially during monsoon season.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Corn: Grate the kernels off the sweet corn cobs using the large holes of a box grater. You should have about 3 cups of grated corn. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka): Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds. Add the cumin seeds and asafoetida, and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped green chilies and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for about a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Chevdo: Add the grated corn, turmeric powder, salt, and sugar to the pan. Mix everything well to combine. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking. The corn will cook in its own moisture, so no extra water is needed.
- 5
Finishing Touches: Once the corn is cooked and tender, turn off the heat
- a.Stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Garnish and Serve: Garnish generously with freshly chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut. Serve the Makai no Chevdo hot or warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use fresh, tender, and juicy sweet corn for the best flavor and texture.
- 2Do not overcook the corn, as it can lose its natural sweetness and become dry.
- 3The corn cooks in its own moisture. Avoid adding any water, as it will make the chevdo mushy.
- 4For a richer flavor, you can use ghee instead of oil for the tempering.
- 5Adjust the sugar, salt, and lemon juice to suit your personal taste for the perfect sweet, savory, and tangy balance.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red chili powder along with the turmeric powder for extra heat.
With NutsWith Nuts
Add 2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts or cashews at the end for a crunchy texture.
With VegetablesWith Vegetables
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped carrots or green peas along with the corn for added nutrition and color.
Jain VersionJain Version
To make a Jain-friendly version, simply omit the ginger from the recipe.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Sweet corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
Energy Booster
As a starchy vegetable, corn is rich in carbohydrates that provide a quick and sustained source of energy for the body.
Source of Antioxidants
Corn contains beneficial antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for eye health, as well as other antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
Gluten-Free Snack
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent and safe snack option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Makai no Chevdo is a relatively healthy snack. It's made from sweet corn, which is a good source of fiber and vitamins. It's lightly spiced and cooked with minimal oil, making it a wholesome choice compared to deep-fried snacks.