Every food and ingredient that is a part of Indian cooking is packed with health benefits and a lot of times, we consume them without actually knowing what these benefits are. Foxnuts or makhane is one such ingredient. They are used as a snack, in curries and even desserts. But, do you know what is so special about these white puffed seeds? Yes, they are actually seeds of lotus and are highly produced in the state of Bihar in India, Japan and Korea.
Here's a whole guide on the benefits of foxnuts and how you can incorporate them in your diet.
1. Benefits of Foxnuts
- Good source of nutrient- Foxnuts are high in protein, fiber and calories of energy and low in fat content. They also contain magnesium, calcium, potassium and phosphorus in good amount.
- High amounts of antioxidants- It is a rich source of antioxidants like gallic acid, chlorogenic acid and epicatechin. Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals.
- Supports weight loss- Makhanas are high in protein and fiber content, both of which are known for weight loss management. Protein reduces food cravings and regulates appetite while fiber gives the feeling of being full.
- Good for diabetes patients- Makhanas are a good snack option for people who have diabetes and heart diseases. It regulates the blood sugar levels and according to some researches, it can significantly reduce high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, both of which are common threats to heart problems.
- Perfect for people with gluten allergy- Foxnuts are gluten-free, which means they are perfect snack/food for people who cannot consume gluten. And since it is high in proteins, fiber and carbohydrate content, it makes up for the lack of nutrition in their body.
- Aids insomnia- Consuming a handful of makhanas daily can improve your sleeping pattern. Makhanas has nerve-stimulating properties that help in inducing sleep by reducing stress.
Tassyam Foxnuts are vegan, gluten-free and have no artificial flavour and added colours.
2. How can you consume Makhanas?
Usually people only consume makhanas when they are fasting, but if used smartly, it can become a part of your diet on a regular basis. The most common way to consume them is as a snack.
Dry roast (or roast with some ghee) the makhanas in a pan, add salt and spices like cumin powder, red chilli powder and chaat masala and mix well.
Store in an air tight container once cooled. Replace these masala makhanas with your unhealthy snacks during tea time or midnight munching.
You can also roast makhanas with peri-peri seasoning from Tassyam for a little spicy kick.
Another snack you can make using foxnuts is makhana tikki, we know it sounds a little weird. But, foxnuts make great tikkis. They add a very crisp texture and ofcourse nutrition.
If looking to make a filling dish for lunch, you can try making phool makhana curry.
Makhanas are so versatile, you can also use them in desserts like makhana kheer. It is a very popular dessert made during navratri fasting.
Add in your favourite nuts like almonds, cashews and raisins to kheer for extra nutrition and richness.
We hope this article made you aware of how wonderful foxnuts are. Let us know your favourite way to eat them.