Are you craving a delicious, crunchy snack that's easy to make and utterly irresistible? Look no further than Namak Para! This incredibly popular Indian savory biscuit is delightfully salty, melt-in-your-mouth buttery, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon treat, a complement to your evening chai, or a simple yet impressive addition to your next gathering, this easy recipe will guide you through making homemade Namak Para that rivals any store-bought version. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, offering a satisfying snack without excessive calories.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/4 cup refined flour (maida) - for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water (or as needed)
- Sesame seeds (til) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Combine wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, vegetable oil, and ice water.
Mix the dough:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough Namak Para.
Chill the dough:
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for achieving the perfect crispiness.
Roll and cut:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough very thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into small, diamond shapes or any desired shape.
Bake to perfection:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cut Namak Para pieces on an ungreased baking sheet. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
Cool and enjoy:
- Let the Namak Para cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
Tips for the Best Namak Para:
- Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and ice water help create flaky layers in the biscuits.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough biscuits.
- Roll the dough thinly: Thinly rolled dough ensures that the Namak Para will be crispy.
- Watch them carefully while baking: Namak Para can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on them in the oven.
Variations:
- Add spices: For an extra flavor kick, incorporate a pinch of ajwain (carom seeds) or black pepper to the dough.
- Experiment with herbs: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist.
- Sweet and salty: Add a pinch of sugar to the dough for a slightly sweet and salty combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate):
- Calories: Around 70-80 calories (this will vary depending on the size of the biscuits)
- Fat: Around 4-5g
- Protein: Around 1g
- Carbohydrates: Around 10g
Enjoy your homemade Namak Para! This easy recipe makes a delightful snack for any time of day, and it's a fantastic way to showcase your homemade cooking skills. It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. This recipe is also perfect for those looking for simple, easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas.