Anupama's Kitchen
Makhana Chivda (Fox Nuts or Lotus Seeds Snack Mixture)
Lotus Seeds or Fox Nuts which are also called as Makhana are cold (Sheeta) and heavy (Guru) according to Ayurvedic properties. They have the ability to reduce and calm both Pitta and Vata. Due to its Kapha qualities, the lotus seeds have an affinity for sleeplessness and calming the nervous system. Lotus seeds are also known to act as a Vajikaran (Aphrodisiac) and Anti-aging ingredient. The seeds are valued for their nutritional qualities of being high in both Calcium and Potassium. Additionally, Makhanas also possess a high thiamine content. Thus, their consumption helps in sustaining the cognitive function of the nerves. Consuming this low caloric herbal product helps in the generation of acetylcholine, therefore contributing to the process of neurotransmission. Makhana is often served as Prasadam and is commonly used as a food to break fasts during Vedic holidays. Overall, this ingredient helps promote Sattva guna in the body, mind, and spirit!
Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
12 Minutes
Serving Size
Serves 5-6
Some of the traditional recipes are Makhana Kheer or Porridge, Makhana Chivda, Makhana Vegetable, and Makhana Rolls, etc. The Makhana Chivda is a quick and easy snack for pregnant and postpartum moms and very favorite among the children. Its shelf life is longer and hence can be taken on long trips.
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Lotus Seeds, Fox Nuts or Makhana
- 2 Teaspoons Ghee
- ¼ Cup Dry Roasted Peanuts
- ¼ Cup Cashews
- ¼ Cup Whole Almonds
- ½ Teaspoons Red Powder
- ½ Teaspoons Turmeric Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Amchur Powder (Dry Mango Powder)
- 5 Fresh Mint Leaves
- 1 Red Dry Chili broken in 2-3 Pieces
- Salt to Taste
Instructions
- On slow gas, in a heavy pan, put 1 teaspoon of ghee and let it melt.
- Then add Fox Nuts or Makhana in the pan. Let it roast for 2-3 minutes. Take it out in a clean, dry bowl.
- In the same pan, add a dash of ghee and let it melt. Then add Almonds, Cashews, and peanuts. Let them roast for almost 1-2 minutes. Take them out and add them to the bowl with Makhana.
- In the same pan, add remaining ghee. Once it is melted, add mint leaves and broken dry red chili pieces.
- Without burning the mint and red chili pieces, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, dry mango powder. Mix it well.
- Add Makhana and all nuts mixture in the above pan. Add salt as needed.
- Mix the whole mixture and keep it on the slow flame for another 1 minute. Take it out from the pan and serve it warm.
- Once cool down, store it in the container and enjoy this yummy snack anytime.