Mouth-Watering Makhana Recipe Ideas

Makhanas, also known as lotus seeds or fox nuts, are a highly nutritious and delicious food item. These crispy seeds are important in Indian cuisine, especially during fasting occasions like Navratri.

Makhanas are versatile and can be used to prepare a wide range of appetizing dishes, ranging from savory starters to sweet desserts. In this collection of recipes, you will discover the diverse culinary possibilities offered by makhanas.

1. Spicy Masala Makhana

• Heat ghee/oil, roast makhanas till golden brown.
• Mix chaat masala, cumin powder, chili powder, and salt, then sprinkle over makhanas and toss to coat.
• These masala makhanas are perfect for bus weekday snacking.

2. Makhana Raita

• Roast makhanas till golden brown.
• Whisk yogurt with spices, then fold in crushed makhanas.
• Chill and serve.
• This chilled yogurt dish is perfect to be served as a refreshing accompaniment to any main dishes, and will surely be a hit with your friends and family. 

3. Makhana Kheer

• Boil milk in a heavy-bottomed pan, and add makahans. 
• Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until the makhanas become soft and the milk thickens, giving you a creamy texture.
•  Next, add sugar or jaggery to sweeten the dessert according to your preference. 
• To enhance the taste, sprinkle a pinch of cardamom powder and stir it well. 
• Finally, garnish the dessert with some chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, or cashews. 
• You can serve it either warm or chilled, depending on your taste.

4. Makhana Salad

• Start by roasting some makhanas until they are crispy and crunchy.
•  Then, chop some fresh and colorful vegetables such as juicy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and crisp bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. 
• For an added protein boost, add some boiled chickpeas or sprouts to the mix. 
• Next, drizzle a generous amount of tangy lemon juice and some smooth olive oil over the salad. 
• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some chaat masala and black salt over the top. 
• Finally, toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing and spices. 
• This salad is not only nutritious and crunchy, but it is also bursting with flavors and textures. 
• It’s the perfect side dish or light meal for any time of day.

5. Makhana Namkeen

• Firstly, take a pan and heat some ghee in it until it starts to melt.
•  Once the ghee is heated, add makhanas to the pan and roast them over medium flame. 
• Keep stirring the makhanas continuously to ensure even roasting.
•  You will notice that the makhanas will start to turn crispy and light golden brown in color. 
• Once the makhanas are perfectly roasted, take them off the heat and let them cool for a minute or two. 
• In the meantime, mix some powdered sugar, black salt, and roasted cumin powder in a small bowl. 
• Now, sprinkle this mixture over the roasted makhanas and toss them well to coat them evenly. 
• You will notice how the sweet and savory flavors blend perfectly, making this snack a treat for your taste buds.

6. Makhana Cutlets

• Begin by boiling some potatoes until they are soft. Once they are cooked, mash them up until they are smooth. 
• Next, take some makhanas and crush them into small pieces. 
• Grate some paneer and chop up some green chilies and coriander leaves. Add the crushed makhanas, grated paneer, chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, cumin powder, and chaat masala to the mashed potatoes. 
• Mix everything together well to create a smooth, flavorful mixture.
• Now, shape the mixture into small cutlets. 
• Heat up some oil in a frying pan and place the cutlets in the pan. 
• Fry them on medium-high heat until they are golden brown on both sides. 
• Once they are done, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
• To serve, place the cutlets on a plate and garnish them with some fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve them hot with mint chutney or tomato ketchup on the side. 

7. Makhana And Peanut Chaat

• Dry roast the makhanas and peanuts and keep aside.
• In a tadka pan add some oil, mustard seeds, curry leaves and toss it in the roasted makhana and peanuts. 
• Sprinkle some salt and enjoy.

8. Mutter Makhana Sabzi

• Roast the makhana with some ghee and keep aside.
• Prepare mutter paneer, like you usually do. 
• Once the peas are done, add a dollop of cream, some roasted cashews and makhanas.
• Serve hot with rotis, parathas or rice.

9. Makhana Cheela

• Start by dry roasting the makhanas on medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes.
• Once done, allow it to cool, and then grind it into a coarse powder.
• Now prepare the filling. For the vegetables of your choice cook for a minute. (this is optional)
• Then in a large bowl, combine the makhana powder, chopped peanuts, cumin powder, and salt. Add the vegetables (if required).
• Gradually keep adding water and adjust the consistency. Make sure that the batter is not too thick.
• Now cook the cheela on a non-stick pan on medium heat. Flip it and allow it to cook on both sides.
• Your cheela is now ready to be served. Pair it with yogurt or coconut chutney, the choice is yours!

Makhanas are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a multitude of scrumptious recipes, ranging from mouth-watering snacks to indulgent desserts. These recipes are guaranteed to satiate your hunger and leave your taste buds tingling with delight, whether you’re fasting during Navratri or simply seeking out healthy and delicious meal ideas.

So go ahead and grab your pack of makhanas – it’s time to start cooking!