Baked Masala Namak Para Recipe – Carom Seeds Spiced Biscuits
Indulging in the world of Indian snacks, the Baked Masala Namak Para is a delightful treat that marries traditional flavors with a healthy baking approach. With the aromatic essence of carom seeds (ajwain) and the warmth of spices, these crispy biscuits make for an excellent companion during tea time or as an anytime snack. This recipe not only brings forth an explosion of flavors but also offers a delightful crunch that is hard to resist.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1/2 cup |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Black peppercorns (crushed) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1 pinch |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tablespoon + more for brushing |
| Water | As needed |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon (for sprinkling at the end) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 150 |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Snack
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
To embark on the flavorful journey of making Baked Masala Namak Para, start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
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Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. To this mixture, add the carom seeds, crushed black peppercorns, asafoetida, turmeric powder, and salt. Incorporate the ghee into the flour mixture, mixing until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Form the Dough: Gradually add water, a little at a time, until the mixture comes together to form a stiff, smooth, and pliable dough. If the dough holds its shape but feels dry, add a bit more ghee. Once the desired consistency is reached, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface of the dough to prevent it from drying out, and allow it to rest for 20 minutes.
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Preheat the Oven: While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), preparing it for the baking process ahead.
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Shape the Namak Para: After the resting period, divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a ball. On a lightly oiled surface, roll one portion into a disc about half an inch thick. Using a knife, make vertical cuts approximately 1 centimeter apart, and then cut at an angle to create diamond shapes or any shape you prefer. Ensure the pieces are arranged half a centimeter apart on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
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Brush and Bake: Brush the shaped namak para with a bit of sunflower oil to enhance the golden color during baking. Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges turn a delightful golden hue. Carefully flip each piece over and bake for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and beautifully golden.
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Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove the namak para from the tray and sprinkle chaat masala over them while they are still hot, allowing the spices to cling. Allow the Baked Masala Namak Para to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
Serve your Baked Masala Namak Para as a delightful tea-time snack, perfectly paired with a cup of Masala Chai and some refreshing tea sandwiches made with beets, radish, avocado, and arugula. This combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also showcases the essence of Indian snacking culture. Enjoy!
