Makhanas, also called fox nuts or lotus seeds, are a Navratri fasting superfood. Light, crunchy, and packed with protein, they can be transformed into tasty snacks or wholesome meals. Here are three easy
and flavorful makhana recipes perfect for the festive season.
1. Roasted Masala Makhana
Ingredients:
2 cups makhana
1 tbsp ghee
Sendha namak (rock salt), to taste
½ tsp black pepper powder
½ tsp roasted cumin powder
Method:
Heat ghee in a pan.
Add makhana and roast on low flame for 7–8 minutes until crisp.
Sprinkle sendha namak, black pepper, and cumin powder.
Toss well and serve warm.
2. Kesar Makhana Kheer
Ingredients:
1 cup makhana
½ litre full cream milk
3 tbsp sugar (or jaggery powder)
1 tbsp chopped dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
A few strands of saffron soaked in warm milk
2–3 cardamom pods, crushed
Method:
Lightly roast makhana in ghee and crush coarsely.
Boil milk and add roasted makhana.
Cook until soft and slightly thickened.
Add sugar, saffron milk, cardamom, and dry fruits.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes and serve warm or chilled.
3. Paneer Makhana Curry (Vrat Style)
Ingredients:
1 cup makhana
100 g paneer, cubed
2 medium tomatoes, pureed
1 green chili, chopped
1 tbsp ghee
Sendha namak, to taste
½ tsp black pepper powder
½ tsp roasted cumin powder
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Method:
Heat ghee in a pan, roast makhana until crisp, and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté green chili and tomato puree. Cook until slightly thick.
Add paneer cubes, roasted makhana, and spices. Mix gently.
Cook for 2–3 minutes and garnish with coriander.
Serve hot with kuttu or singhara puris.
These three makhana recipes are light, wholesome, and perfectly suited for Navratri fasting. Crunchy, creamy, or curry-style, you’ll never run out of delicious ways to enjoy them!
