Makhana, also known as fox nuts, is taking over the fitness circuit, for all the right reasons. Rich with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, this superfood makes a great and guilt-free fitness snack. Whether it’s a pre-workout energizer, a post-workout recovery snack, or just a healthy nibble in between breakfast and lunch, makhana is the way to go. Besides, the Indian government has now come forward to promote its production and consumption.
Sharing healthy and delectable makhana recipes here for fitness enthusiasts:
Roasted Masala Makhana
The easiest way to have makhana! Just roast
them in ghee or olive oil till they become golden then sprinkle a pinch of salt, black pepper or red chili powder, and some chaat masala, and your crispy, protein-packed snack is ready. It‘s perfect to munch between meals or as an evening snack with some hot cup of tea.
Spicy Masala Makhana
Roast some makhana in a ghee till its golden brown then sprinkle some peri-peri masala, roasted cumin and coriander powder, some chaat masala and toss them all together. You can have it during tea time or carry it while travelling.
Makhana Peanut Butter Balls
Blend makhana powder and peanut butter together with some honey, then you can add some cocoa powder to bind it, then shape it in small balls like a laddu and sprinkle some mixed dry fruits powder on it. These bite-sized delights are rich in protein and healthy fats, making them ideal for a quick energy boost.
Makhana Chivda
Toss makhana in a ghee until they become golden and crispy. Heat some oil/ghee in a pan, add some mustard seeds, cumin seeds, a handful of peanuts and cashew nuts then add lots of curry leaves. Turn off the stove and add some turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt and transfer it in roasted makhana and toss them all together. You can replace puffed rice chivda with this tasty makhana chivda.
Chocolate-Coated Makhana
Don’t miss this super easy recipe, coat roasted makhana with dark chocolate and keep it aside to set and chocolate makhana is ready. This makes for a delicious yet healthy dessert option that satisfies your cravings without compromising your fitness goals. A perfect snack for those who love a bit of sweetness.
Makhana & Jaggery Ladoo
A traditional touch to your fitness snack! Crush roasted makhana, mix with jaggery syrup and nuts, and shape them into ladoos. These are a great natural energy booster post-workout
Makhana Chat
Take some roasted makhana in a bowl, add green pudina chutney, some tamarind chutney, some curd, sprinkle some salt, pepper powder, chaat masala then add some chopped onion, chopped tomato, chopped coriander and that’s it. A perfect chat for ‘Street Food Junkies’.
Final Thoughts
Makhana is a superfood. It is versatile and very suitable to support a fitness-focused diet. The following seven snacks are not just healthy, but they are super delicious and very easy to prepare. So, next time you get a craving for a snack, ditch the unhealthy ones and go with makhana instead!
Have you tried any of these? Do let us know your favorite makhana snack in the comments below!
