Masala Roasted Peanuts for Diwali (Easy Spiced Snack)

By : Moiz Blogger | 0 Comments | On : 24/10/2026 | Category : Diwali Recipes

Masala roasted peanuts are a crunchy, savory snack for a Diwali gathering. This easy oven version coats raw peanuts with a little oil and warm Indian-inspired spices, then roasts them until fragrant. Unlike fried snacks, they need only one baking sheet and minimal hands-on work.

Recipe overview

Prep: 5 minutes | Roast: 15–20 minutes | Cool: 10 minutes | Total: 30–35 minutes | Serves: 8 as a small snack | Oven: 325°F (165°C).

Ingredients

• 2 cups (about 300 g) raw shelled peanuts, with or without skins
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil
• 3/4 teaspoon fine salt, adjusted to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder or mild paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon amchur (dried mango powder), optional
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, optional, added after roasting
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, optional, for immediate serving

Allergen warning: Contains peanuts, a major allergen. Do not serve to people with peanut allergies. Whole peanuts are a choking hazard for young children.

How to make masala roasted peanuts

1. Preheat. Heat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season. Put raw peanuts in a mixing bowl. Add oil, salt, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder and optional amchur. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Spread. Arrange peanuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid piling them up so they roast evenly.
4. Roast. Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Begin checking after 12 minutes because peanut size and oven performance vary. Peanuts should smell nutty and show slightly deeper color without dark spots or burnt aroma.
5. Cool. Remove from oven and leave on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Peanuts become crunchier as they cool.
6. Finish. If serving immediately, toss with optional lemon juice and cilantro. For longer storage, skip fresh lemon and cilantro to keep the nuts dry and crisp.

Tips for crunchy peanuts

• Use raw peanuts, not already salted or roasted peanuts, for this timing.
• Roast at moderate heat to avoid burning spices before the nuts cook.
• Stir halfway through for even browning.
• Allow peanuts to cool before judging their final crispness.
• Keep moisture out of the storage container.

Variations

Extra spicy peanuts

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the mild chili powder.

With curry leaves

Toss in a few thoroughly dried curry leaves for the last 5 minutes of roasting, watching carefully to avoid scorching.

Without amchur

Skip dried mango powder and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Lower-salt version

Reduce added salt and increase cumin or coriander for flavor. Check spice blends for hidden sodium.

Serving ideas for Diwali

Offer alongside festive sweets such as besan ladoo, rice kheer and suji halwa. Keep peanut snacks in a clearly labeled bowl to help guests avoid allergens.

Storage

Let roasted peanuts cool completely, then store dry in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 1–2 weeks for best quality, or refrigerate for longer freshness. If fresh lemon juice or cilantro has been added, refrigerate promptly and eat within 1–2 days. Discard peanuts that smell rancid, appear moldy or taste unusual.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use already roasted peanuts?

Yes, but they need much less time. Toss with a little oil and spices, then warm in the oven for just a few minutes; watch carefully to avoid burning.

Can I make masala peanuts without oil?

Yes. Dry roast plain peanuts, then toss with spices while warm. The seasoning may not adhere as evenly.

Why are my roasted peanuts soft?

They may need more roasting time or simply more cooling time. Avoid storing while warm because condensation softens them.

Can I make them ahead for Diwali?

Yes. Roast and cool them in advance, then store airtight and dry.

Are masala roasted peanuts vegan?

Yes, when prepared with the listed plant-based ingredients and suitable packaged spices.

Editorial note

Original editorial cooking guidance, not a claim of independently kitchen-tested results. Oven temperatures and peanut sizes affect roasting time. Any featured image is illustrative.