Makhana, also known as lotus seeds or fox nuts, are harvested from the prickly water lily and are widely consumed across Asia.
These nutrient-rich seeds are often eaten during fasting periods in India and are a versatile ingredient for many delicious dishes.
We’ve gathered some tasty makhana recipes, also referred to as phool makhana recipes, that are perfect for a variety of occasions.
If you’ve never tried makhana before, now’s your chance to discover its unique taste and texture – you’re in for a treat.
1. Roasted Makhana
Roasted makhana is a simple and healthy snack that’s perfect for munching on any time of the day.
The seeds are gently roasted in a wok with ghee or oil until crispy, then tossed with your favorite spices. This snack is comparable to popcorn but offers a nutrient-packed alternative.
You can prepare large batches and store them for later, making it an easy, go-to snack for busy days. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
2. Phool Makhana Curry
Phool makhana curry is made with makhana but without using any onion or garlic, as it is a fasting dish. Instead, it has tomato, cashew nuts, ghee, and lots of spices, including asafoetida, also known as Hing, which has a bitter taste.
The makhana and cashews are roasted in a kadhai, or wok, with spices and then mixed with a paste made from the tomato, chili, and ginger.
Finally, the cream is added to the mixture, and it is served immediately with poori, a deep-fried puffed bread.
Make a few small changes to this delicious dish, and it’s vegan-ready!
3. Aloo Makhana Sabzi
Aloo Makhana Sabzi is a hearty dish, ideal for fasting periods when onion and garlic are avoided. Combining potatoes and makhana, it provides a filling, nutritious meal.
The softness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the crunchy roasted makhana. Serve this dish with paratha, a traditional Indian flatbread, for a wholesome meal.
4. Low Fat Makhana Kheer
Makhana Kheer is a beloved Indian dessert, often enjoyed during festivals and fasting periods.
This low-fat version simmers makhana in milk until soft, then sweetened with sugar and flavored with cardamom, pistachios, and almonds.
It can be served either warm or chilled, making it a versatile dessert option.
And, you can switch out the milk for your fave plant-based alternative.
5. Makhana, Mushroom Mawa Matar
This is a great party or special occasion dish with its vibrant colors and rich flavors.
There are a lot of ingredients in this recipe and the vast majority of them are spices, so this gives some indication of the depth of flavor you can expect from this dish.
Despite the number of ingredients, preparation is only 20 minutes, and the dish takes just 20 minutes to cook. It can be garnished with fresh cilantro and served with rice or hot naan.
6. Makhana Chops
Makhana can also be used in savory chops. After soaking, the lotus seeds are mashed and combined with arbi (a starchy root vegetable) and spices.
Shaped into patties, they are shallow-fried in ghee until golden brown. Serve these crispy chops with a tangy mint chutney for a delightful snack or appetizer.
7. Kaju-Makhana Lajawab
Kaju-Makhana Lajawab is a rich dish made with cashews, makhana, and coconut.
A paste of poppy seeds, cashews, and coconut milk is sautéed and combined with roasted makhana and cashews. This creamy, mildly spiced dish is perfect for festive occasions.
Swap out the milk and cream to make this vegan-friendly.
8. Makhana Chaat
Makhana Chaat is a delicious, quick-to-make snack commonly enjoyed during Navratri fasting.
It’s a flavorful combination of roasted makhana, vegetables, and chutneys. Known for its popularity as a street food, this dish is perfect for a light snack or a small meal.
Again, you can make some small changes to make it suitable for vegans.
9. Palak Makhana
Palak Makhana is a nutritious North Indian dish made with spinach and lotus seeds. It’s commonly prepared during fasting periods due to its simple ingredients.
Spinach provides a rich source of iron, while makhana adds a satisfying crunch. Serve with cumin rice or puffed Indian bread (puri) for a filling, healthy meal.
Make it vegan by swapping out the ghee and milk.
10. Makhana Aloo Tikki
Makhana Aloo Tikki is another popular fasting snack. Roasted makhana is ground into a coarse powder and combined with mashed potatoes and spices.
These are shaped into patties and pan-fried until golden brown.
Serve them with a fasting-friendly chutney for a quick and easy snack.
Final Thoughts
Makhana is not only a versatile ingredient but also a nutrient-dense food packed with calcium, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants.
Whether you’re preparing meals during religious fasting or simply looking for healthy snack options, these makhana recipes offer a variety of ways to enjoy this superfood.
These dishes showcase how makhana can be incorporated into everyday meals, from hearty curries to light snacks.
Give them a try and discover the delicious potential of lotus seeds in your cooking.