Using my air fryer, I can make this flavorful Makhana Namkeen in no time, but if you prefer, it can easily be made on the stovetop too! Whether it’s for your masala chai or a festive gathering, this healthy namkeen mix will surely impress your guests. So, let’s dive into this delightful snack that’s not just tasty but also a fantastic option for any occasion!
Why Try This Recipe?
Almost Zero Oil: Enjoy a crispy snack without the excess calories. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nuts and makhana, it’s a nutritious option for any time of day. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days when you need something tasty in a hurry. Gluten-Free: Ideal for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions. No Deep Frying: A healthier alternative that still gives you that satisfying crunch. Perfect for chai time: The crunchy mix pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, making it an ideal snack for your daily chai time. Festive-friendly: Easy to make in large batches, this namkeen is a great option for sharing during the festive season. Versatile and flavorful: Packed with nuts, makhana, and crispy potatoes, this mix offers a variety of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Potatoes: These are cut into thin matchsticks to create a base for the laccha. When air-fried, they become golden, crispy, and light. Makhana (Fox Nuts): Makhana is a popular Indian snack known for being low in calories and high in nutrients, especially protein and fiber. In this recipe, air-fried makhana adds a subtle crunch that perfectly balances the crispiness of the potatoes. They also absorb the spices beautifully, making them a flavorful addition. Raw Peanuts: The raw peanuts in this mix contribute both texture and nutrition. When air-fried, they become crispy on the outside while maintaining a slight chewiness inside, adding richness and a satisfying crunch. Plus, peanuts are packed with protein and healthy fats, making this snack more filling. Cashews: Cashews bring a buttery, creamy texture to the namkeen. When air-fried, they take on a delicious golden color and add a mild sweetness. Red Chili Powder: This spice adds just the right amount of heat, creating a balance between the rich, crunchy elements and the sharper spices. Chaat Masala: Chaat masala is a tangy spice blend that adds a burst of flavor to the namkeen. It brings a mix of salty, tangy, and slightly sour notes. Oil or Ghee: Although this is a nearly oil-free recipe, a small amount of oil or ghee is used to help the spices adhere to the potatoes, makhana, and nuts. Ghee, in particular, adds a rich, slightly nutty flavor, while oil keeps the snack lighter but equally flavorful. Salt: No snack is complete without a pinch of salt!
How to Make Air Fry Namkeen Mix
Let’s get started! Here’s how you can easily prepare this delicious snack:
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel 2 medium potatoes and slice them into thin strips using either a crinkle cutter for interesting shapes or a slicer for uniform pieces. Soak the potatoes: Place the cut potato strips in water and let them soak for 15 minutes to remove excess starch and achieve crispiness. After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry using a cloth. Season the Potatoes: Sprinkle salt over the potato strips and mix well to enhance flavor. Air Fry the Potatoes: Place parchment paper in the air fryer basket, brush it lightly with oil, and spread the potato strips evenly. Set the air fryer to 185°C and cook for 9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Air Fry the Nuts: Now, air fry 1 cup of makhana, ½ cup of raw peanuts, and ½ cup of cashews for 3-4 minutes at 180°C. Combine all and Season: Now add air-fried laccha, puffed rice, and a tablespoon of ghee. Season with salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and chaat masala, ensuring everything is well-coated. Toss in fresh curry leaves for added aroma.
Final Air Fry: Air fry the combined mixture for an additional 2 minutes at 180°C to meld the flavors. Serve: Serve the crispy namkeen hot with your evening chai and enjoy! Your homemade, air-fried gluten-free namkeen is now ready to be enjoyed, whether on its own or with your favorite chutney.
Substitutions You Can Make
Different Nuts: You can substitute raw peanuts and cashews with almonds or walnuts for a different flavor and texture. Potato Alternatives: If you’re looking to lower carbs, try zucchini or sweet potatoes for a unique twist. Spice Variations: Feel free to add your favorite spices like garlic powder or paprika to customize the flavor profile. Oil Alternatives: Use coconut oil or avocado oil for a different taste while keeping it healthy.
Creative Variations You Can Try
Storage
To keep your Air Fry Namkeen Mix fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its crispiness. If you find the namkeen has lost its crunch over time, you can reheat it in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to restore its texture.
How to Serve the Recipe
This crispy Air Fry Namkeen Mix is perfect for serving alongside your masala chai. You can also present it as a festive snack for gatherings or parties. It pairs wonderfully with dips like Green Chutney or yogurt, adding a refreshing twist.
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