Festivities need not be just about the sweets. In fact, celebrations are not complete without a proper variety of food, which includes the savory snacks. One such savory Indian snack is Namakpare, which are probably fading out, but most of us as kids loved these being prepared for Diwali, Holi and marriage celebrations. Namakpare were an integral part of a gift box with sweets and savory snacks. An important part of the tradition, this wonderful snack is made with maida and ajwain. The idea is to make sure to knead a tight dough and cook these on low flame, for the right coloring and taste. These crunchy Namakpare can be easily kept for couple of weeks–and sometimes, longer–in an air-tight container and enjoyed with some nice hot tea in the evening.
All you need is (serves multiple)
- Maida – 1 cup
- Sooji (fine) – 2 tbsp
- Salt – 3/4 tsp
- Ajwain – 1/2 tsp
- Desi ghee – 2 tbsp
- Water – to knead (it’s best to use slightly warm water)
- Oil for frying
Namakpare Recipe
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and use warm water to knead a tight dough.
- Keep the dough for 10-15 minutes and cover with a cloth.
- Roll dough into thin circles and cut it in the shape of elongated diamonds, as shown above.
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottom pan.
- Fry the shapes on low heat till golden brown. The browning will continue even after you remove them from oil, which is fine.
- Remove oil by placing these on a kitchen tissue.
- Cool and serve with tea.
