Makhana is one of those ingredients that fits effortlessly into Indian kitchens. It can be sweet or savoury, light or comforting, and works well for kids, elders, and everyone in between. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a festive sweet, or a comforting dessert, these three makhana recipes are simple, familiar, and easy to prepare at home.
1. Jaggery Makhana Laddu
Best for: Healthy sweets, kids, festive treats
Ingredients:
2 cups plain makhana
½ cup chopped dry fruits (almonds & cashews)
3 tablespoons ghee
½ cup grated jaggery
½ teaspoon cardamom powder
Method:
Dry roast makhana until crisp and crush coarsely. Heat ghee, add makhana and dry fruits, then mix in jaggery and cardamom on low heat. Shape into laddus while warm.
2. Makhana Chaat
Best for: Kids, school snacks, casual munching
Ingredients:
2 cups SavoryOh makhana (salted or flavoured)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small tomato, finely chopped
Juice of ½ lemon
A pinch of chaat masala
Fresh coriander (optional)
Method:
Lightly roast the makhana if needed until crisp. In a bowl, mix makhana, onion, and tomato. Add lemon juice and chaat masala, toss gently, garnish with coriander, and serve immediately.
3. Creamy Makhana Kheer
Best for: Dessert, elders, family meals
Ingredients:
2 cups plain or mildly flavoured SavoryOh makhana
1 litre milk
1 tablespoon ghee
3–4 tablespoons sugar or grated jaggery
½ teaspoon cardamom powder
Chopped nuts (optional)
Method:
Lightly crush the makhana. Heat ghee, add makhana, and sauté briefly. Add warm milk and simmer on low heat until soft and creamy. Sweeten, add cardamom and nuts, and serve warm.
