Air Fryer Masala Makhana (Roasted Lotus Seeds)

Ingredients

• 2 cups (60 g) makhana (fox nuts / lotus seeds)
• 1 tbsp ghee or oil, melted (optional)
• ¼ tsp turmeric (optional)
• ½ tsp red chilli powder (optional)
• ½ tsp chaat masala, to finish (optional)
• Salt, to taste

Steps

1. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a bowl, toss the makhana with the melted ghee or oil, turmeric, chilli powder and salt until every piece is evenly coated.
3. Spread in a single layer in the air fryer basket - don't overcrowd, work in two batches if your basket is small.
4. Air fry for 6 minutes, then shake the basket well.
5. Air fry a further 3-4 minutes (9-10 minutes total) until light, crisp and golden - they should sound hollow and papery when you bite one.
6. Tip into a bowl, finish with a sprinkle of chaat masala, and let cool for 2 minutes before eating - they crisp up further as they cool.

Tip: Makhana should sound hollow and papery when you bite one - if they're still a bit chewy in the centre, give them another 1-2 minutes. They firm up fast as they cool, so don't over-roast chasing a crunch you'll get anyway.

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Nutrition (per serving)

Estimated from standard ingredient data — actual values vary by brand and exact quantities used.

Serving & Storage