Peri Peri Makhana Recipe – Easy Roasted Fox Nuts Snack

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Peri Peri Makhana Recipe – Easy Roasted Fox Nuts Snack

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, healthy, and seriously tasty snack. And let me tell you, this Peri Peri Makhana is it! I first made this when I was craving something crunchy and spicy, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. It’s so simple to make, and honestly, it disappears within minutes. Get ready to ditch those chips – you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Peri Peri Makhana recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s ready in under 15 minutes, requires just a handful of ingredients, and is incredibly satisfying. Plus, makhana (fox nuts) are a fantastic healthy snack – more on that later! The peri peri spice adds a lovely kick, making it perfect for those afternoon cravings. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s both flavorful and good for you.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this deliciousness:

• 1.5 cups makhana (foxnuts) – about 150g
• 2 teaspoons ghee – about 10ml
• 2 teaspoons peri peri mix
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A little extra info always helps, right?

Makhana/Fox Nuts – Nutritional Benefits & Origin

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, are a superfood originating in India! They’ve been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and low in calories – perfect for a healthy snack.

Ghee – Clarified Butter & Alternatives

Ghee is clarified butter, and it adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the makhana. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, or even make your own! If you prefer, you can substitute with an equal amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

Peri Peri Mix – Spice Blend Origin & Heat Level

Peri Peri is a chili pepper originally from Portugal, but hugely popular in Indian cuisine now. The spice mix usually includes African bird’s eye chili, lemon, garlic, and other spices. The heat level can vary, so start with 2 teaspoons and adjust to your liking. You can find peri peri mix in most supermarkets or online.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously easy.

1. First, heat the ghee in a pan over medium heat. Just enough to melt it nicely.
2. Add the makhana to the pan and roast on a low-medium flame. This is where patience comes in! Stir occasionally to ensure even roasting.
3. Now, here’s the trick to perfectly roasted makhana: check for crispness by pressing one. It should break easily when it’s fully roasted. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the makhana cool for a couple of minutes. This helps the spices stick better.
5. Sprinkle the peri peri spice mix over the warm makhana and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Finally, adjust the salt to your taste and serve immediately. Or, store in an airtight container for later!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned along the way…

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Roast the makhana in batches if needed to ensure they get nice and crispy.
• Keep the heat on medium-low. You want to roast, not burn, the makhana.
• Cooling the makhana slightly before adding the spices helps them adhere better.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Spice Level – Mild, Medium, Hot

Adjust the amount of peri peri mix to control the heat. Start with 1 teaspoon for mild, 2 for medium, and 3+ for hot!

Vegan – Using Oil Instead of Ghee

Simply substitute the ghee with an equal amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil. It won’t have quite the same flavor, but it’ll still be delicious.

Festival Adaptations – Diwali/Holi Snack

This makes a fantastic festive snack! You can add a pinch of turmeric for color during Diwali, or a sprinkle of dried mango powder (amchur) for a tangy twist during Holi.

Serving Suggestions

Honestly, this Peri Peri Makhana is perfect on its own! But if you’re feeling fancy, you can:

• Serve it as a side with your evening chai.
• Pack it in lunchboxes for a healthy snack.
• Sprinkle it over salads for a crunchy topping.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover makhana in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay crispy for up to 3-4 days, but trust me, it rarely lasts that long!

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Is makhana good for weight loss?

Absolutely! Makhana is low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied. It’s a great alternative to processed snacks.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just store the roasted makhana in an airtight container and add the peri peri mix right before serving to keep it crispy.

What is peri peri spice and where can I find it?

Peri peri is a spicy chili pepper-based seasoning. You can find it in most supermarkets in the spice aisle, or online.

Can I use a different oil instead of ghee?

Definitely! Coconut oil or vegetable oil work well as substitutes.

How do I know when the makhana is perfectly roasted?

The makhana should be light and crispy, and break easily when pressed. If it’s still chewy, roast for a few more minutes.