Makhana Paneer Balls – Navratri Special Snack

Step 1: Prepare Paneer

Take 200 grams of paneer in a bowl and mash it thoroughly with your hands until it becomes crumbly and soft. Ensure there are no large lumps.

Step 2: Prepare Makhana Powder

Take approximately 1 cup of dry-roasted makhana and grind it into a fine powder using a mixer grinder. If you don't have dry-roasted makhana, you can roast them in a pan for 2-3 minutes until crispy.

Step 3: Prepare Peanut Powder

Take 15-20 roasted peanuts and grind them into a coarse powder using a mixer grinder. Add this to the paneer mixture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the makhana powder and peanut powder to the mashed paneer. Then, add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, 1 teaspoon of chopped green chilies, 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper powder, and 1 teaspoon of sendha namak (rock salt) to taste. Mix all the ingredients well with your hands until a cohesive mixture forms.

Step 5: Form Balls

Take small portions of the mixture and gently roll them between your palms to form smooth, soft balls. Continue until all the mixture is used.

Step 6: Shallow Fry the Balls

Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee on a non-stick tawa (griddle) over medium-low flame. Place the prepared paneer balls on the tawa. Shallow fry them, turning occasionally with a spoon, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked, remove the golden brown makhana paneer balls from the tawa. Serve them hot with a side of curd (yogurt), optionally seasoned with a sprinkle of black pepper.

• This is a healthy and tasty alternative to deep-fried snacks during Navratri.

• The recipe is quick and easy, taking only 10-15 minutes to prepare.

• Instead of balls, you can also shape the mixture into tikkis (patties).