Description
Namak Para is a crunchy Indian snack, perfect for gatherings or a savory treat, made from all-purpose flour and semolina with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/4 cup fine semolina (sooji)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee (for moyan)
- 3/4 tsp carom seeds (ajwain) or cumin seeds (jeera)
- Salt to taste (about 3/4 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder (optional)
- About 1/2 cup water, as needed
- Neutral oil, for deep frying
- Yogurt or mint dip, tamarind chutney (for serving)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine maida, sooji, ajwain or jeera, salt, and (optionally) pepper.
- Add oil or ghee to the mixture and rub it into the flour until it looks like breadcrumbs.
- Slowly add water to form a stiff dough. Cover it and let it rest for 20 minutes.
- After resting, divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion to a thickness of 2–3 mm.
- Cut the rolled dough into diamonds or strips, or make fun shapes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and test with a small piece of dough.
- Fry the Namak Para in small batches, turning until evenly golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve with chai or store in an airtight container.
- For baking, brush with oil and bake at 180°C/350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Notes
Store in an airtight container to keep freshness. Customize with spices like turmeric or red chili powder for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Indian