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The Popcorn Swap You’ll Actually Crave: Roasted Makhana

Looking for a healthy, crunchy vegan snack? This roasted makhana namkeen recipe is oil-free, gluten-free, and full of flavor. Perfect for guilt-free snacking any time of day!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tired of reaching for oily chips or sugary snacks?

Enter Roasted Makhana Namkeen; a crunchy, wholesome, and nourishing Indian snack that’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with antioxidants and protein.


Also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, makhana has been a staple in Ayurvedic and Indian diets for centuries. When dry-roasted and spiced right, they turn into a guilt-free, crunchy treat that’s perfect for mid-day munching or post-workout cravings.


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Health Benefits of Makhana


  • Low-Calorie & High-Protein

  • Good Source of Magnesium, Iron & Phosphorus

  • Rich in Antioxidants

  • Supports Gut Health

  • Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegan



Ingredients You’ll Need


  • 2 cups makhana (fox nuts)

  • ½ tsp cold-pressed coconut oil (or dry roast for oil-free)

  • ¼ tsp turmeric powder

  • ½ tsp black salt or pink salt

  • ½ tsp roasted cumin powder

  • ¼ tsp red chili powder (optional for heat)

  • Pinch of amchur (dry mango powder) – optional for tang



Step-by-Step: How to Make Roasted Makhana Namkeen


1. Dry Roast the Makhana

Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on low flame. Add makhana and roast dry for 7–8 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn crisp and lightly golden. They should be crunchy when bitten.

Tip: Take one out to test, if it’s chewy, roast a little more.
2. Add Minimal Oil & Spices

Once crisp, lower the heat and add just a touch of coconut oil (optional). Immediately toss in all your spices—turmeric, cumin powder, chili, salt, and amchur.

Stir for a minute so the spices coat the makhana evenly.

3. Cool & Store

Let it cool completely. Store in an airtight container and enjoy for up to 2 weeks.




Flavor Variations to Try


  • Masala Makhana: Add chaat masala + a hint of ajwain.

  • Sweet-Spicy: Add jaggery powder + chili for a tangy twist.

  • Minty Makhana: Add dried mint powder + fennel seeds.



When to Snack on Roasted Makhana?

  • Morning or evening tiffin filler

  • Post-yoga or pre-workout fuel

  • Study-time munch for kids

  • Travel-friendly clean snack

  • Gut-friendly fasting food



Tried this recipe? Drop a comment below with your favorite spice combo!

What’s your go-to healthy snack?

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