Air Fryer Roasted Makhana and Nuts

These Air Fryer Makhana and Nuts are crispy, crunchy, delicious and super easy to make. The air fryer means no extra oil is needed and everything is ready in 20 minutes!

If you’ve never tasted makhana before, consider this your cue to make some now. Also known as fox nuts, split lotus seeds or makhana phool, these babies are loaded with healthy vitamins and nutrients, have a ton of benefits, and are absolutely delicious!

Making baked makhana is also incredibly easy and our trusty air fryer makes everything so much easier. Unlike baking on the stove, where you have to keep stirring it constantly, an air fryer makes most of the process hands-free, meaning you can have this makhana snack ready in less than 20 minutes!

Reasons you’ll love this

• You can eat it on fasting days as well as if you follow one sattvic lifestyle.
• The addition of roasted almonds and roasted cashews makes this already healthy dish even more so healthy.
• This snack is easy customizable. You can change the masalas, spices and add or exclude ingredients based on what you have available.
• The perfect non-fried alternative to a crunchy snack to have with evening tea.
• You can easily make one big pile for the week.
• If you don’t have an air blower, you can easily do this in even stoves.

Air Fryer Makhana Ingredients

Tavern: Also known as pierced lotus seeds, you will find them in any grocery store both online and offline in India, and in Indian stores if you live outside India

nuts: I used a mix of cashews and almonds, but you can use any nut you like. I also occasionally add peanuts, walnuts, pistachios, brazil nuts and hazelnuts for a little variation

seasoning: Chaat masala provides a nice crunch and turmeric powder adds some color

Salt: For spices

Curry leaves: For a sweet, earthy freshness

Ghee: It helps the masala stick to it. Plus ghee adds a rich flavor, but you can use oil for a vegan version

Frequently asked questions

Richa’s top tips

• Preheat the air fryer: A properly heated air pan helps the makhana and nuts to roast evenly and become crisp without overcooking.
• Shake halfway: Give the basket a good shake around the 3 minute mark so that the makhana and nuts brown evenly on all sides.
• Do not overcrowd the basket: Spread everything out as much as possible. If your air fryer basket is small, bake in batches for better browning and absorption.
• Cool completely before storing: The makhana and nuts will continue to brown as they cool. Make sure they are completely cool before transferring to an airtight jar, otherwise trapped steam can make them soggy.
• Taste and adjust seasonings: The chaat masala may vary in saltiness, so taste the baked makhana after it cools down and add a little more salt or chaat masala if needed.

Baked Makhana Variations

This recipe is a basic version of makhana, but hazelnuts are a super versatile ingredient and there are many ways to spice them up. Here are some of our favorites:

• Peri-peri Makhana: Just toss everything in a store-bought peri-peri masala for a delicious treat.
• KFC Fried Chicken Masla: My KFC Fried Chicken Masla it’s honestly so delicious and will take your makhana game to the next level!
• Chaat Makhana: Instead of the usual gruel, mix in some onions, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, green chutney, tamarind and sev for a quick chat.
• Makhana cheese: A little sprinkling of parmesan cheese or cheese powder will make this an instant kid favorite!
• Garlic Makhana: Garlic makes everything better, and baked machanas are no exception. Toss everything in a dash of garlic powder for an instant flavor boost.
• Paprika Makhana: If you prefer a little heat, paprika makhana is your best friend!

Storage tips

• Once completely cooled, transfer the makhana and roasted nuts to an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. But make sure the container is clean and dry. If exposed to air or moisture, baked makhana can become mushy and soggy and not really taste great.
• If they start to lose their crunch, just pop them back into the air fryer 160°C (320°F) for 2-3 minutes. Allow to cool completely before storing again.
• Avoid placing in the refrigerator them, as moisture in the fridge can make the machana soft and chewy instead of fresh.

Benefits of Makhana

Makhana has many essential nutrients and vitamins that make it super healthy, but baking makes it even better. When you bake makhana, it becomes easier to chew and won’t get stuck in your teeth. Here are some other benefits of eating makhana that will convince you to prepare this dish as soon as possible:

• High protein and fiber: Makhanas are a great way to increase your daily intake of protein and fiber, both of which can aid in weight loss.
• High in antioxidants: Being a rich source of antioxidants, makhanas help neutralize the effects of harmful free radicals, prevent oxidative damage. Which means it will help you maintain healthy, youthful skin as well as reduce inflammation.
• Packed with essential vitamins and nutrients: Makhanas are a rich source of phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, zinc, etc. making it an excellent addition to your diet to prevent heart problems, diabetes and high blood sugar among others.
• Gluten free and vegan: Since the makhana is naturally gluten-free and vegan, it’s the perfect snack for people with dietary restrictions.

Ever since I started making home-baked makhana, my evening snack game has become so easy and guilt-free. And since this makhana snack travels so well, I love making it part of my kids’ school lunches and they love eating it!

Watch the video of the recipe of baked Makhana

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.