Makhana Chaat is a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you need a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon or a light snack in the evening, this dish will satisfy your cravings while providing a guilt-free indulgence.
Simple Steps To Make Makhana Chaat At Home With Ease:
-
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this tasty treat, you’ll need a few basic ingredients: 1.5 cups of Makhana (lotus seeds), two teaspoons of ghee (clarified butter), 1 cup of curd (yoghurt), two tablespoons of sugar, green chutney and sweet chutney (as per your taste preferences), red chilli powder, chaat masala powder, roasted cumin powder, finely chopped raw onion, coriander leaves for garnishing, and some crunchy Sev (noodles) for added texture.
-
Preparing Makhana
The first step in making Makhana Chaat is to prepare the star ingredient – the Makhana. Heat a pan on medium flame, and once it’s hot, add the ghee. As soon as the ghee melts, toss it in the Makhana and stir it continuously. Keep stirring until the makhana turn a beautiful golden brown color and become crispy, which should take around 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the roasted makhana to a bowl and let them cool down completely.
-
Making the Curd Mixture
While the Makhana is cooling, it’s time to prepare the creamy base for your chaat. In a mixing bowl, whisk the curd and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This tangy and slightly sweet curd mixture will be the foundation of your delectable Makhana Chaat.
Putting Makhaana Chaat Together
Now comes the fun part—making the chaat mixture! Add the roasted and cooled makhana to the curd mixture and gently toss them together, ensuring it is evenly coated with the creamy curd. In a serving bowl, arrange the curd-coated makhana. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of jeera powder, Red chilli powder, and chaat masala powder over the top, adjusting the quantities according to your taste preferences. This combination of spices will add the perfect kick of flavour to your chaat.
Garnishing and Serving
To take your Makhana Chaat to the next level, garnish it with finely chopped raw onion, fresh coriander leaves, and a generous helping of crunchy sev. The onion will provide a refreshing crunch, the coriander will lend its aromatic freshness, and the sev will add an irresistible crunchiness to every bite.
Serve the Makhana Chaat immediately after garnishing to enjoy its optimal freshness and crunch. If you’re preparing it in advance, adding the makhana to the curd mixture just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy is best.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to adjust your Makhana Chaat to fit your taste buds. Discover the versatility of chutneys and spice powders by exploring various combinations to achieve your desired flavour profile. Tailor your mix to suit your taste preferences, aiming for the perfect balance of flavours. Opt for a healthier option by substituting full-fat yogurt with low-fat curd in your recipes. Experimenting with ingredients allows you to create unique and delicious dishes while promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Health Benefits of Makhana
Aside from being deliciously addictive, makhana is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s a great source of protein and low in calories, making it an ideal snack for health-conscious individuals. Additionally, makhana is rich in fibre, which aids in promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
With its unique combination of flavours, textures, and nutritional benefits, Makhana Chaat will surely become a favourite in your household. Relish the tangy, spicy, and crunchy flavours in every bite of this homemade delight.
