What is Sev?
Sev (pronounced as seo or syo) is a popular besan-based (gram flour) snack enjoyed across several Indian states, including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, with each region offering its unique spin.
At The Malwa Story, we make the original MP sev originating from the Malwa region.
Key Ingredients in Authentic MP Sev:
Our sev is made by mixing besan (gram flour) with a specific blend of Malwa spices:
- Salt, Red Chilli Powder, Black Pepper, Haldi (turmeric)
- Heeng (asafoetida), Cumin (jeera), Ajwain (carom seeds), and Loung (clove).
This mixture is formed into long strands and fried in cooking oil. A point worth noting is that sev has NO MAIDA.
Is It the Same as Bhujiya?
Not really. Bhujiya is a type of sev, but not all sev is bhujiya. The sev from The Malwa Story is different from the Rajasthani bhujiya commonly found in the market:
| Feature | The Malwa Story MP Sev (Malwa Region) | Rajasthani Bhujiya |
| Main Ingredient | Only Besan (Gram Flour) | Besan mixed with Rice Flour / Maida / Dal Powder |
| Spice Level | Slightly higher on the spice scale. | Slightly lower on the spice scale. |
| Texture | Gives the right balance of crunch and softness (due to only besan). | Very crunchy. |
| Health Note | Healthier snack as it contains no maida. | Contains maida/flours which contribute to texture. |
What Do I Eat Sev With?
A better question is: What can you not eat your sev with?
Sev is incredibly versatile and forms a permanent part of the diet for a "sevpaglu" (sev-lover) from the Malwa region:
🌞 Morning/Breakfast:
- Poha Topping: Start the day with a bowl of Poha topped with a generous amount of Ujjaini or Ratlami Sev for the perfect amount of spice and protein.
- Sev Sandwiches: A quick and spicy breakfast! Take a slice of bread, spread some ketchup, layer with Ratlami Sev, place another slice of bread on top, and it’s ready. (Avocado toast who?)
🍽️ Lunch:
- Sev Tamatar ki Sabzi: Use Loung Sev to make this popular curry (sev tomato curry) to eat with chapati.
- Side Dish: Use a handful of Garlic Sev as a crunchy side dish with your boring dal and rice to add a much-needed spicy kick.
☕ Evenings:
- Chai Time Mix: Enjoy a bowl of Ratlami Sev mixed with parmal (murmura / laiya / lahi / moori / puffed rice) paired with a strong cup of tea.
🌙 Dinner:
- Curries and dal are temporary, sev is permanent. Like lunch, sev is incorporated into curries or used as a flavourful, spicy side with the main meal.
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