Mint And Coriander Spicy Multigrain Crackers (Mathri) Recipe
Indulge in the crispy, flavorful crunch of these Mint and Coriander Spicy Multigrain Crackers (Mathri), a perfect accompaniment to your tea time or a delightful appetizer for holiday gatherings. These spiced crackers are made with a blend of whole wheat flour, gram flour (besan), and ragi flour (finger millet), creating a unique and healthy twist on the classic mathri. Infused with aromatic spices like cumin, ajwain, and turmeric, and enhanced with the fresh flavors of mint and coriander, these crackers are sure to impress your guests. You can enjoy them as a light snack or top them with cheese or a fresh salad for a party-ready appetizer.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Whole Wheat Flour | 400 grams |
Gram Flour (Besan) | 100 grams |
Ragi Flour (Finger Millet) | 100 grams |
Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
Ghee or Butter | 3/4 cup |
Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon, lightly crushed |
Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon |
Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 teaspoon, crushed |
Mint Leaves (Pudina) | A handful, finely chopped |
Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | Small bunch, finely chopped |
Ginger | 1 inch, grated |
Green Chilli | 1, slit and finely chopped |
Salt | To taste |
Oil | For deep frying |
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
---|---|
Calories | ~150-180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | ~20g |
Proteins | ~4g |
Fats | ~8g |
Fiber | ~2g |
Sodium | ~250mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, gram flour (besan), and ragi flour. Add the ghee (or butter) and salt. Using your fingertips, rub the flour into the ghee to create coarse crumbs. This process will help the dough achieve a crispier texture once fried or baked. -
Add the Spices:
Add the remaining ingredients—turmeric powder, sesame seeds, cumin seeds, ajwain, crushed black pepper, mint leaves, coriander leaves, grated ginger, and chopped green chili. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure that the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. -
Knead the Dough:
Gradually add small amounts of water, a little at a time, to bring the dough together. Knead it until you form a smooth, firm dough. If necessary, add a bit more ghee or oil on your palms to ensure the dough doesn’t stick. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rest for about 30 minutes. -
Roll the Dough:
After the resting period, knead the dough again to make it smooth and pliable. Divide it into lemon-sized balls. Roll each ball out on a flat surface dusted with flour. Roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness. -
Shape the Crackers:
Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut the rolled-out dough into desired shapes—either diamonds or squares. Make sure to prick each cracker with a fork to prevent puffing while frying or baking. -
Fry or Bake the Crackers:
- To Fry: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully slide the shaped crackers into the oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- To Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the shaped crackers on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Check the crackers frequently, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
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Serve:
Once your crackers are crisp and golden, allow them to cool. Serve them as a delicious tea-time snack or as an appetizer topped with cheese or a fresh salad for a festive touch. They make an excellent addition to holiday parties and gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Crackers
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of green chili or black pepper.
- For a Vegan Version: Simply replace the ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
- Storage: Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. They will stay crisp and fresh when stored properly.
Why You’ll Love These Crackers
The Mint and Coriander Spicy Multigrain Crackers are not only a healthy option but also packed with flavors that appeal to all the senses. The blend of spices and fresh herbs, combined with the texture of the multigrain flours, makes them a nutritious and tasty choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them with tea or as a crunchy appetizer at your next holiday party, these crackers are sure to be a hit!