MAKHANA RECIPES FOR KIDS
RECIPE- 1
1. Chocolate/Caramel Makhana
Sweet, chocolaty, and slightly crunchy, this snack combines the light crispiness of roasted makhana with the rich flavor of chocolate or caramel. It’s indulgent yet healthy, making it a perfect treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups makhana (fox nuts)
- 2 tbsp ghee
- 3 tbsp chocolate chips or 2 tbsp caramel syrup
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Steps:
- Heat ghee in a pan on medium flame.
- Add makhana and roast for 6–8 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Melt chocolate or caramel in a small bowl.
- Remove makhana from heat and toss with melted chocolate/caramel.
- Spread on parchment paper, let it cool, then serve.
Did you know? Makhana has been cultivated in India for over 1,000 years and is often called the “phool makhana” because of its flower-like shape. It’s naturally high in protein and low in calories, making it the perfect healthy snack even with chocolate or caramel coating.
RECIPE- 2
2. Honey Cinnamon Makhana
Lightly sweet with a warm, aromatic hint of cinnamon, this makhana has a soft crunch and a naturally delightful flavor. The honey adds a gentle sweetness without being overpowering, making it a kid-friendly and comforting snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups makhana
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp cinnamon powder
Preparation Steps:
- Roast makhana in ghee over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Turn off the heat.
- Drizzle honey over the roasted makhana.
- Sprinkle cinnamon powder and mix well.
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container.
Did you know? Makhana seeds come from a water lily and naturally pop when roasted, giving them a light, crunchy texture. Rich in protein and gluten-free, they make a perfect healthy snack for kids.
RECIPE- 3
3. Butter Popcorn-Style Makhana
Buttery, lightly salted, and crunchy, this makhana is reminiscent of popcorn but healthier. The rich buttery flavour blends perfectly with the natural nutty taste of makhana, making it an irresistible snack for children.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups makhana
- 1 tbsp butter
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Steps:
- Melt butter in a pan on medium heat.
- Add makhana and roast for 6–8 minutes until crisp.
- Sprinkle salt and toss evenly.
- Serve immediately as a crunchy snack.
Did you know? Often called the “gold of wetlands,” makhana grows in natural ponds and marshes. It is rich in antioxidants and low in fat, making buttery makhana a healthier snack than regular popcorn.
RECIPE- 4
4. Makhana Laddoo (Soft)
Soft, mildly sweet, and nutty, these laddoos have a melt-in-the-mouth texture. The natural flavor of roasted makhana is enhanced by jaggery, giving it a wholesome, earthy sweetness that kids love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups roasted makhana
- 2 tbsp ghee
- 3 tbsp jaggery
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Preparation Steps:
- Grind roasted makhana coarsely in a blender.
- Melt jaggery in ghee in a pan over low heat.
- Add ground makhana to the jaggery mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until sticky.
- Shape into small laddoos while warm.
- Cool completely and store in an airtight container.
Did you know? Makhana has been used in Indian rituals and festivals for centuries as a symbol of prosperity and longevity. Packed with protein, it makes laddoos a naturally energizing treat.
RECIPE- 5
5. Makhana Kheer
Creamy, smooth, and slightly sweet, this kheer has soft, tender makhana that absorbs the rich flavor of milk and cardamom. The subtle crunch of nuts adds texture, making it a comforting and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup makhana
- 2 cups milk
- 2–3 tsp sugar
- 2–3 cardamom pods
- Chopped nuts for garnish
Preparation Steps:
- Roast makhana lightly in a pan until crisp.
- Boil milk in a saucepan.
- Add cardamom pods and roasted makhana to the milk.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes on low heat.
- Add sugar and stir well.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm or chilled.
Did you know? Makhana has been enjoyed in India for centuries for its nutritional benefits. When softened in milk, it retains its high protein content, making kheer both tasty and nutritious.