Authentic Nimki Recipe – Perfect Evening Tea Time Snack
Nimki, also known as Mathri in some regions, is a traditional North Indian tea-time snack. It’s a crispy, savory cracker, full of aromatic flavors. Whether you serve it with spicy mango pickle or enjoy it on its own, Nimki is a delightful treat that complements every sip of tea. Often found in every North Indian household, this snack is especially popular during festivals like Diwali and Holi. Here’s how to make this crunchy, flavorful snack at home:
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee or Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Oil (for deep frying) | As needed |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 150-200 kcal per serving
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Begin by placing the all-purpose flour (maida) in a large mixing bowl. Add the salt, carom seeds (ajwain), and either ghee or oil to the flour.
- Mix everything together until the flour becomes crumbly, with the ghee or oil evenly incorporated. The texture should resemble breadcrumbs.
2. Knead the Dough
- Gradually add a small amount of water at a time and knead the mixture into a stiff dough. It’s crucial to make the dough firm for the perfect crunch.
- Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and set it aside for about 30 minutes. This resting period helps in setting the texture of the dough.
3. Shape the Nimki
- After 30 minutes, divide the dough into 20 equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into small balls.
- On a flat surface, roll each ball into a 4-inch diameter disc.
- Apply a little ghee on each disc, then sprinkle a pinch of chaat masala powder.
- Fold the disc in half to form a semi-circle, then fold it again into a triangle shape. Press the edges to seal.
- Use a fork to prick the surface of the Nimki on both sides. This step prevents the puffing up of the dough while frying, ensuring they stay crisp.
4. Fry the Nimki
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-low heat. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough; if it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Nimki in batches. Carefully slide a few pieces into the hot oil and fry them on low heat. This is essential for ensuring they cook evenly and become golden brown and crispy.
- Keep turning the Nimki to ensure even frying on all sides. Avoid frying on high heat as it may cause them to remain raw inside.
5. Drain and Cool
- Once the Nimki are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oil and drain the excess oil on paper towels.
- Allow the Nimki to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This helps in maintaining their crispness.
6. Serving
- Serve the crispy Nimki with a hot cup of ginger tea or pair them with a tangy mango pickle for a delightful tea-time snack.
- They also make an excellent accompaniment during festivals such as Diwali, Holi, or any special occasion.
Tips and Variations
- Flavors: You can experiment with adding cumin seeds, black sesame seeds, or fennel seeds for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Version: Add red chili powder to the dough for a spicy twist, or serve with spicy chutneys for extra heat.
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the Nimki at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.
Conclusion
This Authentic Nimki recipe is not just a snack; it’s a tradition that brings warmth and comfort to your tea-time rituals. With its crunchy texture and delightful taste, Nimki is sure to be loved by all. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or celebrating a special occasion, this simple yet flavorful snack will always be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make this crispy, savory delight at home!
