Makhana is called Foxnuts in English. It is actually not a nut but is derived from the stem of the lotus flower. Can you believe it?
Here are the Health Benefits of Makhana.
Source – manjumakhana.com
1. Lotus seeds benefit the spleen, kidney, and heart.
2. The seed also has calming properties that alleviate restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia.
3. It is also rich in calcium.
4. It regulates blood pressure , relieves numbness and aching near waist and knees.
5. It is Suitable for arthritis, helps fighting impotency and premature aging. Makhana is very useful for women during and post pregnancy period.
6. It is also helps your respiratory system, veins and digestion.
7. Popped makhna cotains almost 12% of protein! (excellent especially for vegetarians!)
I have these as regular snack option for my kids, sautéed in ghee and sprinkled with pink Himalayan salt and black pepper. A perfect option as compared to buttered popcorn. Crunchy, filling and nutritious.
The other day, Amit was craving for something spicy and tangy at te same time. Typical Indian munching flavors. So, I did this quick spin on my regular recipe. I am not going to mention a recipe with measured ingredients today but an idea of spices that I used and you could use too, as per your taste.
Ingredients
Phool Makhana / Foxnuts – 2 cups approximately
Ghee – 1 tbsp
Garam Masala
Amchur / Dry Mango Powder
Black pepper powder
Red chili powder
Salt or Himalayan pink salt to taste
Method
1. Dry roast the Makhanas till they are crunchy on low flame, for about 7-8 minutes.
2. Heat ghee in another small pan. Cool it a bit. Add the spices to it. Add this ghee tempering on top of the Makhanas and toss well.
3. Eat them warm. They are a just out of this world delicious.
4. You may store them at the room temperature in a closed lid jar, when they cool completely.
Another Holi idea for quick snacks!
Enjoy!
Sonal
Margot @ Gather and Graze
These sound fabulous Sonal – the perfect snack! I’m totally impressed by the health benefits too!
Elaine @ foodbod
They look so good. I’ve never tried foxnuts x
simplyvegetarian777
You will like these Elaine. Try them if you can find 🙂
Elaine @ foodbod
I’m sure I saw them at the market x
Natalie Browne
I’ve never heard of these before, but they sound yummy. I’ll have to see if I can find them around here.
Nancy
I’ve never heard of these, Sonal…so very interesting and they sound yummy! Is this something you find at the Indian Market? I can’t say I’ve ever seen them at Kroger…
simplyvegetarian777
Yes Nancy. You will find them at in fund store. This is very native to Indian cuisine . Kroger won’t carry it.
lovinghomemade
Have never heard of makhana or foxnuts but your recipe sounds good!
Mr Fitz
Foxnuts? Never heard of them!
Everyday Asia
One of my all time snack favourites!!
simplyvegetarian777
☺️ regular at my place too!!
Erika Mohssen-Beyk
Reblogged this on ErikaBeyk.
The Novice Gardener
I haven’t been able to find makhana! Grrr…really want to taste these! But guess what? I found fresh methi! So beautiful!! Not sure what to do now. A little bitter, but not too bad. Smells good!
simplyvegetarian777
Angie, fresh methi is used like spinach in vegetables. It can be added to flat breads or paranthas, made crackers with, made saag with spinach n other leaves. Make potato n methi or carrots n methi, seasonal sides in Indian food. I sometimes air dry these and sprinkle in my stews n dals n curries too.
simplyvegetarian777
I am posting 3 recipes soon using methi. Had bought the fresh bunch myself :). Only leaves are used n stems are discarded.
Makhana is easily available to any Indian grocery store. Amazon might have it too. You will love it. It’s used in curries as well
The Novice Gardener
Yay! I bought two bunches! You’ll never know when I’ll see them again 😀 I’ll be on the look out for makhana.
simplyvegetarian777
Let me know if you don’t find them. Will send you a bag from here :).
The Novice Gardener
Aaw…you’re so nice! I’ll pay you for them! Or maybe I can send you something to trade for them?
cookingwithtoddlers
I’ve never heard of these! They wound wonderfully nutritious. I must try some. I’ve never seen them in Portland at our food coop though. Where do you buy these?
simplyvegetarian777
They are really good for kids and adults equally. I buy them from Indian store. Amazon shud sell it too.
srividhya
Mess free snack. I love it.. need to try some subzi with this
apuginthekitchen
I’ve never heard of these before would love to try them. Love a crunchy savory snack.
Traditionally Modern Food
Grt teatime snack
simplyvegetarian777
Thanks Vidya ❤️