Foxtail Millet Nippattu Recipe: A Crunchy South Indian Snack
Foxtail Millet Nippattu is a delicious and crunchy savory snack hailing from South India. Made with nutritious foxtail millet flour, rice flour, gram flour (besan), and an assortment of aromatic spices, these crispy treats are perfect for tea time or as a quick snack. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Indian snacks or looking for a healthier twist on your snack-time favorites, this recipe is sure to please. The addition of dill leaves and roasted peanuts brings a unique flavor, making each bite a satisfying treat.
Ingredients for Foxtail Millet Nippattu
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Foxtail Millet flour | 1 cup |
| Rice flour | 1 cup |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1 cup |
| Raw peanuts (moongphali) – roasted | 2 tablespoons |
| Dry red chillies – finely crushed | 2 teaspoons |
| Dessicated coconut | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame seeds (til seeds) | 1 tablespoon |
| Dill leaves – finely chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Butter – sizzling hot, melted | 1 tablespoon |
| Hot water | 1 to 2 cups (as needed) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil (for deep frying) | 3 cups |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Foxtail Millet Nippattu
-
Roasting the Flours
Start by dry roasting the foxtail millet flour, rice flour, and gram flour in a pan on medium heat. Stir occasionally for about 4 to 6 minutes, until the flours become aromatic and lightly golden. Turn off the heat and set the roasted flours aside to cool completely.
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Preparing the Spice Mix
In a mixing bowl, combine the roasted flours with the crushed dry red chillies, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, finely chopped dill leaves, and salt. Add the dessicated coconut and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Mix everything well. -
Adding Butter and Making the Dough
Once the dry ingredients are well mixed, pour in the sizzling hot melted butter. This will help bind the mixture together and enhance the flavor. Mix everything thoroughly until the butter is evenly distributed. -
Forming the Dough
Gradually add lukewarm water, a little at a time, mixing it into the flour mixture until a soft and pliable dough forms. The dough should not be too sticky or too dry. If the dough feels dry, add a bit more water; if it’s too sticky, add a little more rice flour. -
Shaping the Nippattu
Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, flatten each ball into a small disc about 2 inches in diameter. You can use a greased plastic sheet or wax paper to press the dough into shape without it sticking. Be gentle while rolling the nippattu to maintain their shape. -
Heating the Oil
Heat sunflower oil in a deep frying pan on medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a tiny ball of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready for frying. -
Frying the Nippattu
Lower the heat to medium. Carefully peel each flattened nippattu off the wax paper and gently drop it into the hot oil. The nippattu will initially sink and foam but will quickly rise to the surface. Flip the nippattu over to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy. -
Draining the Nippattu
Once the nippattu are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and drain them on a paper napkin or a sieve placed over a bowl to remove excess oil. -
Cooling and Storing
Let the nippattu cool completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh for longer.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy the crunchy Foxtail Millet Nippattu with a hot cup of Masala Chai during your tea time break. These savory delights are perfect for sharing with family and friends, making them an excellent addition to any snack table.
Tips for Perfect Nippattu
- If you prefer a spicier snack, you can adjust the amount of dry red chillies according to your taste.
- To add a bit of crunch, try sprinkling some roasted sesame seeds or peanuts over the dough before frying.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the nippattu, as this will help them cook evenly and become crispy.
- You can also add a pinch of turmeric for color and additional flavor if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~5 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30 g |
| Fat | ~15 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Sodium | ~200 mg |
Foxtail Millet Nippattu brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite. The nutty millet flour, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic spices create a delicious, crispy treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthier snack option or simply want to enjoy a tasty South Indian snack, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try and savor the crunch!
