Delicious and Crispy Namakpare: A Traditional Indian Snack Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of All-Purpose Flour (Maida)
1/2 cup of Semolina (Sooji)
1/2 teaspoon of Salt
2 tablespoons of Oil
1/2 cup of Water (Approx.)
Oil for Deep Frying

Steps and instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, and salt.
Add the oil to the flour mixture and mix well until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Gradually add water and knead into a stiff dough. Be careful not to over-knead, as this may make the Namakpare tough.
Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 15 minutes.
After the dough has rested, divide it into equal parts and roll each part into a circle of about 1/4 inch thickness.
Cut the rolled dough into small diamond shapes using a sharp knife.
Heat the oil in a deep pan for frying. Once the oil is hot, reduce the flame to medium.
Drop the diamond shaped pieces into the hot oil and deep fry them on medium flame until they turn golden brown.
Remove the fried Namakpare using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Allow the Namakpare to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
Rolling Pin - A long, cylindrical tool used for rolling the dough.
Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the rolled dough into diamond shapes.
Deep Pan - A pan with high sides for deep frying the Namakpare.
Slotted Spoon - A spoon with slots or holes for removing the fried Namakpare from the oil.
Paper Towels - To drain excess oil from the fried Namakpare.
Airtight Container - A container with a tight seal for storing the cooled Namakpare.

Recipe variations

Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Add spices such as red chili powder, turmeric, or cumin powder to the dough for a spicier flavor.
Sprinkle some sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top of the Namakpare before frying for added texture and flavor.
For a sweet twist, dust the fried Namakpare with powdered sugar or drizzle them with honey.
Make a savory variation by adding dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the dough.
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour.
Experiment with different shapes and sizes of Namakpare, like triangles or small squares.
Add finely chopped onions, green chilies, or cilantro to the dough for an extra kick of flavor.
Instead of deep frying, try baking the Namakpare in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for a healthier option.
Serve the Namakpare with a dipping sauce or chutney of your choice, such as mint chutney or tamarind chutney.

Recipe overview

Namakpare is a popular Indian snack often prepared during Diwali or other festive occasions. These are crunchy, diamond-shaped savory treats made from a stiff dough of all-purpose flour, semolina, salt, and oil, deep-fried until golden brown. The recipe is quite straightforward and the result is a delicious snack that you can enjoy anytime. Be prepared for a little bit of kneading and rolling, but the end result is absolutely worth it. Once prepared, these Namakpare can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed for several days. Happy cooking!

Common questions

How long does it take to make Namakpare?
The total time required to make Namakpare is approximately 45 minutes, including preparation and frying.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version of Namakpare. However, the texture and taste may vary slightly.
Can I add any spices or herbs to enhance the flavor?
Yes, you can add spices like red chili powder, turmeric powder, or crushed black pepper for a spicier version of Namakpare. You can also sprinkle chaat masala or dried herbs like oregano for added flavor.
Is it necessary to let the dough rest?
Yes, letting the dough rest for at least 15 minutes allows the gluten to relax and makes it easier to roll and shape the Namakpare.
How do I store Namakpare?
Once the Namakpare have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Can I make Namakpare in advance?
Yes, Namakpare can be made in advance. Prepare them as directed and store in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for a few weeks, making them a convenient snack option.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients for the dough.
Rolling Pin - A long cylindrical tool used to roll out the dough into a thin circle.
Knife - A sharp knife to cut the rolled dough into diamond shapes.
Deep Pan or Kadai - A deep pan or kadai to heat the oil for deep frying the Namakpare.
Slotted Spoon - A spoon with slots that allows excess oil to drain off when removing the fried Namakpare from the pan.
Paper Towels - Absorbent towels to drain excess oil from the fried Namakpare.
Airtight Container - A container with a tight-fitting lid to store the cooled Namakpare and keep them fresh.

Origin stories

Namakpare, a savory and crispy snack, finds its origins in the vast cuisine of India, particularly in the Northern regions. The name 'Namakpare' translates to 'salt slices', quite literally describing the dish. They are traditionally made during festivals like Diwali and Holi, but their simplicity and delightful taste have made them a popular snack all year round. Interestingly, Namakpare is made with just a few basic ingredients, yet the preparation technique is what makes it unique and flavorful. The dough is rolled out, cut into diamond shapes and then deep-fried till crisp. A notable feature of this snack is its long shelf-life; when stored properly in air-tight containers, Namakpare can be enjoyed for weeks on end.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.