Makhana/ Lotus Seeds are usually consumed during fastings because of its nutritional values and health benefits. The micronutrients found in lotus seeds are of vast importance to a human body. These lotus seeds are easily available in all the Indian grocery stores. This can be consumed raw or cooked into savory or sweet dishes. These lotus seeds are good for weight loss as these will leave you feeling full and satisfied.


These lotus seeds are also called as fox nuts. We can make this kheer/pudding which is one of the many dishes that can be made out of lotus seeds. Rich in protein and calcium, combines beautifully with milk to make a delicious and creamy pudding.
I first tasted these delicious seeds, when my friend in India made a savory and she gave the raw lotus seeds which she brought from her hometown. I started making different dishes by googling and recently I realized, I never posted a dish using these amazing seeds which have lots of health benefits.
The roasted makhana tastes exactly like popcorns. This recipe is so easy to make and can be done within no time. If any unexpected guests, this is a perfect dessert to serve them. Roast the makhanas and keep them in an airtight jar, which is ready to use at any time. Hope you all like this and try this out.


Ingredients:

1. Makhana/ Lotus Seeds- 1 Cup
2. Milk- 2 Cups
3. Sugar- 4tbsp
4. Cardamom Powder- 1 tbsp
5. Saffron Strands- a pinch
6. Clarified Butter- 1 tbsp
7. Cashew- 10-15

Method:

1. Roast the lotus seeds in clarified butter until they become crunchy. Roast the cashews in the same pan. Keep these aside.
2. From the roasted lotus seeds, take a handful and coarsely grind them in a blender. Keep this aside.
3. Heat the milk in a deep bottomed pan. Stir in between so that the milk won't scorch at the bottom.
4. When the milk comes to a boil, add required amount of sugar and the saffron, stir well. In this add the coarsely powdered lotus seeds and the whole lotus seeds, simmer till they become soft and the milk gets reduced well.
5. Switch off the flame, add the roasted cashews and the nuts of your choice. Enjoy this hot or cold.