Karapusa—also known as Kara Sev or Omapodi—is a beloved South Indian snack that’s as crunchy as it is nostalgic. It’s especially popular in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, often making an appearance during festivals or as a tea-time treat.

At its heart, Karapusa is made from a dough of gram flour (besan) and rice flour, seasoned with red chili powder, asafoetida (hing), and sometimes ajwain (carom seeds) for a subtle aromatic kick2. The dough is pressed through a sev maker into hot oil, forming delicate, crisp strands that are fried to golden perfection.

There are many variations—some spicier, some milder, and some even infused with garlic or pepper. It’s often enjoyed on its own or as part of a snack mix like Mixture or Chivda