Crispy Masala Namak Para

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (75g) semolina 1/2 cup (75g) semolina
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds) 1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Water, as needed for kneading Water, as needed for kneading
• Oil, for deep frying Oil, for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 27g, 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, cumin seeds, ajwain, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the vegetable oil and mix well until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead to form a firm dough.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet.
5. 5.
   Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into diamond-shaped pieces.
6. 6.
   Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat.
7. 7.
   Carefully drop a few namak para into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
8. 8.
   Remove the fried namak para using a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
9. 9.
   Repeat the frying process with the remaining namak para.
10. 10.
    Allow the namak para to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Semolina — Make sure to use fine semolina for a smoother texture in the namak para.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of spice, add a pinch of garam masala to the dough.
• Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve crispy namak para.
• Store the namak para in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
• Serve with a tangy chutney or dip for a delightful flavor combination.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Masala Namak Para as a standalone snack or alongside a cup of hot masala chai for a perfect tea-time treat.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown namak para on a platter or in a bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for an appealing presentation.