Namak pare (nimki) recipe for a colorful holi celebration

Namak Pare (Nimki) Recipe for a Colorful Holi Celebration

Namak Pare are delightfully crisp, savory bites that offer the perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of Holi celebrations. As you prepare for the festival, creating these crunchy delights will not only add texture to your festive spread but also evoke warm memories of traditional Holi kitchens. With the signature crispness achieved by using Purti Edible Oils, your Namak Pare will be a true celebration of authenticity and flavor.

 

Ingredients For the Dough:

• – 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• – 2 tablespoons semolina (sooji) – optional for extra crunch
• – 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• – 1/2 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
• – 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder (optional for a slight kick)
• – 2 tablespoons melted ghee or oil (helps bind the dough)
• – Water (as needed for kneading)

 

Ingredients For Frying:

Purti Vanaspati – Ensure you use enough for deep frying

 

Directions

Step 1: 

Preparing the Dough

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, salt, ajwain, and black pepper powder. These ingredients form the flavorful base of your Namak Pare.

Incorporate the Fat: Pour in the melted ghee or oil. This step ensures a flaky texture in the final product. Mix thoroughly so that the ghee is well distributed within the dry ingredients.

Knead to Perfection: Gradually add water to the mixture while kneading to form a smooth and firm dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 20–30 minutes. Resting helps the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out.

 

Step 2: 

Rolling and Shaping

Divide and Roll: Divide the rested dough into small portions. Using a rolling pin, roll each portion into a thin sheet. The thinner the sheet, the crisper the Namak Pare will become after frying.

Cut into Shapes: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into diamond or square shapes. Traditional recipes often suggest making them with a slightly irregular outline to mimic the rustic nature of the snack.

 

Step 3: 

Frying with Purti Edible Oils

Heat the Oil: Pour enough Purti Edible Oils into a deep frying pan or kadai. Heat the oil to a medium temperature. Purti Edible Oils are perfect here, as their high smoking point ensures that your snacks fry evenly, resulting in a light and crunchy texture.

Fry in Batches: Carefully slide a few pieces of the Namak Pare into the hot oil. Fry them on medium heat, turning occasionally, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. A constant moderate temperature is key to preserving the snack’s crispness without burning.

Drain and Cool: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried Namak Pare and place them on absorbent paper to remove any excess oil. Allow them to cool completely; they will become even crispier as they rest.

 

Step 4:

Serving the Festive Snack

Season with Love: If desired, sprinkle a little extra salt or your favorite chaat masala while they are still warm for that burst of flavor.

 

Plate with Pride: Serve these crunchy, savory treats in a festive bowl. Namak Pare make a perfect companion to your Holi celebrations, balancing the sweets and adding a delightful crunch in every bite.

 

Why Purti Edible Oils?

Purti Edible Oils are renowned for their purity and high performance in deep-frying, making them ideal for preparing Namak Pare. Their stable, high smoke point ensures that your snacks come out perfectly golden and crisp every time. The use of Purti Vanaspati not only preserves the authentic taste of traditional Indian recipes but also lets the natural flavors of the spices and herbs shine through. This ensures that every bite you enjoy is a true tribute to the cherished culinary heritage of Holi!