Makhana, also known as foxnuts or lotus seeds, has been a staple in Indian households for centuries, especially during fasting periods like Navratri. It is revered for its lightness and versatility. Makhana cutlets are a delicious and healthy snack option, combining the goodness of lotus seeds, potatoes, and paneer into a flavorful treat. This recipe adds a delightful twist to the traditional fasting menu, offering a perfect blend of texture and taste.
About the Recipe:
Makhana cutlet is a unique snack that brings together crunchy roasted makhana, creamy potatoes, and aromatic spices. These cutlets are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying meal. This recipe uses fasting-compliant ingredients like rock salt, cumin, and ghee, making it perfect for Navratri or other vrat occasions. It’s an easy-to-make dish that pairs perfectly with green chutney or sweet yogurt.
Why Makhana Cutlets Are Perfect for Fasting:
Makhana cutlets are highly preferred during fasting because of their sattvic nature, meaning they are pure and promote positive energy. They are made using ingredients permissible during fasts, ensuring that one stays nourished and energized throughout the day without compromising on health or flavor.
Health Benefits:
- Rich in Protein & Low in Calories: Makhana is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a great option for maintaining muscle health and energy levels, especially during fasting. Despite being nutrient-dense, it is low in calories, helping manage weight.
- Easy to Digest: This dish is light and easy to digest, making it a perfect fasting snack.
- Nutritional Balance: The combination of makhana and potatoes provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, calcium, and magnesium.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan Adaptable: The cutlets are naturally gluten-free, and they can be made vegan by replacing ghee with a plant-based oil.
Ingredients:
- Makhana (Foxnuts): Known for its high nutritional value and antioxidant properties, makhana helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports heart health.
- Potatoes: Provide energy-boosting carbohydrates and act as a binding agent for the cutlets.
- Paneer: Adds a soft, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchiness of the roasted makhana, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Green Chili & Coriander Leaves: Lend freshness and a mild kick to the cutlets.
- Cashews: Enhance the richness and texture, providing a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Rock Salt (Sendha Namak): A mineral-rich, fasting-compliant salt that is lighter and healthier than regular salt.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with green chutney or sweet yogurt dip.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea for an evening snack.
- Complement with a light salad of cucumbers and tomatoes for a refreshing contrast.
Variations:
- Makhana Sweet Potato Cutlet: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious variation.
- Spiced Makhana Kebabs: Add fasting-friendly spices like black pepper or roasted cumin powder for enhanced flavor.
- Makhana and Sabudana Cutlet: Mix soaked and drained sabudana (sago) with the makhana and potato mixture to create an additional layer of texture and chewiness.
Thus, Makhana cutlets are a wholesome, delicious snack that can be enjoyed not only during fasting but also as a healthy appetizer or side dish. Their nutritional benefits, combined with a delicate flavor, make them an ideal choice for anyone looking to indulge in a guilt-free snack. So, try out this recipe during your next fast and relish the crispy goodness of these cutlets!
Enjoy!
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Makhana Cutlets
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 1x
Description
Makhana Cutlets are crispy, light, and nutritious snacks made with roasted foxnuts, mashed potatoes, grated paneer and mild spices. Perfect for fasting or anytime cravings, these cutlets are a delicious blend of texture and flavor. Serve them hot with green chutney or yogurt dip for a delightful treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups makhana (foxnuts) roasted
- 2 potatoes, boiled & mashed
- 2 green chillies, finely chopped
- Some chopped coriander leaves
- ¼ cup paneer, grated
- 1 tablespoon roasted cumin powder
- Rock salt to taste
- 10–12 cashew nuts
- Ghee for shallow frying
Instructions
- Heat a tablespoon of ghee in a pan.
- Roast the makhana on low heat for 7 to 10 minutes.
- Once the makhana turns crispy and its color changes slightly, turn off the heat. Let it cool down completely.
- Then grind it coarsely in a grinder.
- In a bowl, mash the boiled potatoes.
- Add coarsely grinded makhana, finely chopped green chili, coriander leaves, grated paneer, cumin powder, finely chopped cashews and rock salt to taste . Mix everything well.
- From this mixture, form small balls, flatten them into the shape of a tikki.
- Grease a pan with ghee and cook these prepared cutlets until they turn golden brown. Serve hot with green chutney or sauce.
- This is a perfect snacking option for fasting (vrat).
- Enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure that the fox nuts are roasted on low heat to prevent burning. Stir occasionally for even roasting.
- Allow the roasted makhana to cool completely before grinding. This prevents moisture buildup.
- Use starchy potatoes (like Russet or Yukon Gold) for a creamier texture. Make sure they are well-mashed to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Feel free to add spices like black pepper or chaat masala for extra flavor. Adjust the spice level to your preference!
- Use ghee for a traditional flavor, but you can also use olive oil or any plant-based oil if you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer, fasting
- Cuisine: Indian
