Garlic Makhana Namkeen is a savory and crunchy snack made with roasted makhana (fox nuts), flavored with a blend of garlic, spices, and fried nuts. Makhana is a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine for its health benefits and versatility. This snack is delicious and provides a nutritious alternative to traditional fried snacks, offering a combination of flavors and textures that satisfy cravings while being mindful of health.
Healthier Alternatives to Frying:
To make Garlic Makhana Namkeen even healthier, you can use these methods instead of frying the ingredients:
- Dry Roasting:
- Instead of frying, you can dry roast the peanuts, chana dal, and cashew nuts in a pan over medium heat. Stir continuously until they turn golden brown and crispy. This method reduces the amount of oil used and retains the crunchiness.
- Air Frying:
- An air fryer can be used to roast the peanuts, chana dal, and cashew nuts with very little or no oil. This method provides a similar texture to frying but with significantly less fat content.
- Baking:
- Spread the peanuts, chana dal, and cashew nuts on a baking tray and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Baking helps to achieve a crispy texture without the need for frying.
- Microwaving:
- Place the peanuts, chana dal, and cashew nuts in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute until they are roasted to your liking. This is a quick and oil-free method for roasting.
- Using Less Oil:
- If you prefer the traditional frying method, you can reduce the oil used by frying the ingredients in a smaller amount of oil, just enough to coat them lightly, and then drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
These methods help to maintain the nutritional value of the ingredients while reducing the overall fat content, making Garlic Makhana Namkeen a healthier snack option.
Making Garlic Makhana Namkeen as a Storable Snack
Garlic Makhana Namkeen makes for an excellent storable snack. When properly prepared and stored, it can stay fresh and crunchy for several weeks. Here’s how to prepare and store it for longer shelf life:
- Ensure Proper Roasting:
- When making Garlic Makhana Namkeen, make sure that the makhana and other ingredients like peanuts, chana dal, and cashew nuts are thoroughly roasted. Proper roasting ensures that they are free of moisture, which is key to keeping the snack fresh.
- Cool Completely:
- After preparing the Garlic Makhana Namkeen, allow it to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. Storing it while still warm can lead to condensation inside the container, which can cause the snack to become soggy.
- Use Airtight Containers:
- Store the cooled Garlic Makhana Namkeen in an airtight container. This prevents air and moisture from entering, which helps to maintain the snack’s crispiness.
4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place:
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as this can introduce moisture.
5. Check Regularly:
- Periodically check the snack for any signs of moisture or staleness. If stored properly, Garlic Makhana Namkeen should stay fresh for 2-3 weeks or even longer.
This Garlic Makhana Namkeen is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free snack that you can enjoy anytime. Perfect for tea time, as a travel snack, or just when you’re craving something tasty!
Garlic Makhana: A Healthy Snack Option
Ingredients
Ingredients for Masala
Ingredients to Fry in Oil
For Garlic Makhana
Preparation
- To make the Garlic Masala transfer garlic, Shallots, Curry leaves, Ginger, spices, salt, and water to a grinding jar. Grind to a smooth paste and set aside.
- Add Peanuts to heated oil stir and fry for 6-7 Minutes, remove from oil and transfer to a bowl, Also fry chana dal, Cashew nuts, Green chili, and Curry Leaves separately and transfer to bowl.
- Next to a heated pan add 3 cups of Makhana dry roast until it turns crispy, remove and set aside
- To the same pan add oil as the oil gets heated add the ground garlic Paste, stir, and cook for 5 minutes on medium flame. Add Kasoori Methi and cook the masala until the oil Separates.
- Once the oil Oozes out add roasted Makhana and mix well until makhana is well coated with the Masala then add the fried ingredients and continue to mix Until well coated. Switch off the flame and allow it to cool.
- After cooling transfer the Namkeen snack to airtight containers and serve in portions.
