on Nov 09, 2023, Updated Sep 18, 2024 If you’ve never tasted makhana before, consider this your cue to make some right now. Also known as fox nuts, popped lotus seeds, or phool makhana, these babies are loaded with healthy vitamins and nutrients, have a tonne of benefits, and are absolutely delicious! Making roasted makhana is also insanely easy, and our trusty air fryer makes everything a whole lot easier. Unlike roasting on the stove where you need to constantly keep stirring, an air fryer makes most of the process handsfree, which means everything’s ready in under 20 minutes!
Can be eaten on fasting days and is great for those of you who follow a sattvic lifestyle. The addition of roasted almonds and roasted cashews makes this already healthy dish even more wholesome. This snack is easily customisable. You can vary the masalas, spices, and add or exclude ingredients based on what you have available. Perfect non-fried alternative for a crunchy snack to have with your evening chai. You can easily make a big batch for the week. I have made this in the air fryer, but it can easily be made on the stovetop too.
Air Fryer Roasted Makhana Ingredients
Richa’s Top Tips
It is important to pay attention to the cook time as nuts can burn very easily. Each air fryer is different, and the exact time of roasting may slightly differ depending on the one you have. I would recommend checking every minute or so after first roasting the nuts and makhana for 3 minutes. If roasting on the stovetop, never do it on high heat as that can burn the makhana and cook things unevenly. Makhana roasts best on low heat for those perfect crunchy and crispy results. If you’re making a bigger batch, I would recommend roasting it in batches. Overcrowding the pan can make the makhana chewy instead of crunchy. If you’re vegan, you can easily replace the ghee with coconut, olive or mustard oil, depending on what you prefer. You can even use any vegetable oil instead.
Roasted Makhana Variations
This recipe is a basic version of makhana, but fox nut is a super versatile ingredient and there are so many ways of seasoning it. These are some of our favourites:
Peri-peri makhana: Simply toss everything in some store-bought peri-peri masala for a tasty treat. KFC fried chicken masala: My KFC fried chicken masala is honestly so delicious, and it will take your makhana game a notch higher! Makhana chaat: Instead of the usual murmura, mix some onions, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, green chutney, tamarind chutney, and sev for a quick chaat. Cheese Makhana: A little sprinkling of either parmesan cheese or cheese powder will make this an instant kids’ favourite! Garlic Makhana: Garlic makes everything better, and roasted makhanas are no exception. Toss everything in a dash of garlic powder for an instant boost of flavor. Paprika Makhana: If you prefer a dash of heat, paprika makhana is your best friend!
Ever since I have started making roasted makhana at home, my evening snack game has become so easy and guilt free. And since roasted makhana travels really well, I love making it a part of Mahi’s school tiffin and she totally loves munching on it! LOVE THIS RECIPE? Subscribe to my newsletter and be the first to receive all new recipes!
Watch The Video!
Benefits of Makhana
Makhana in general is loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins that make it super healthy, but roasting makes it even better. Roasted makhana is easier to chew and doesn’t get stuck in your stick. Here are some more benefits of eating makhana that will convince you to make this dish ASAP:
High protein and fiber: Makhanas are a great way to increase your daily protein and fiber intake, both of which can aid in weight loss. High in antioxidants: Being a rich source of antioxidants, makhanas help neutralise the effects of harmful free radicals, prevent oxidative damage. Which means it’ll help you maintain healthy, youthful skin, as well as reduce inflammation. Loaded with essential vitamins and nutrients: Makhanas are a rich source of phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, zinc, etc. making it a great addition to your diet to prevent heart problems, diabetes, and high blood sugar among others. Gluten free and vegan: Since makhana is naturally gluten-free and vegan, it is the perfect snack for people with dietary restrictions.
