Makhana Bhel Recipe: A Crunchy, Guilt-Free Evening Munch

If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to fried snacks without compromising on taste or crunch, Makhana Bhel is the answer. Made with roasted fox nuts (makhana), this quick recipe brings together the tanginess of bhel and the health benefits of lotus seeds. Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals, makhana is a superfood that’s light on the stomach but satisfying for your taste buds.

With zero deep frying and full-on flavor, this snack is perfect for those watching their calories, managing weight, or simply trying to eat clean. The recipe is also versatile—customize it with sprouts, pomegranate, or even yogurt for a chaat-style twist. It comes together in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings or unexpected guests. Let’s whip up this crunchy, flavorful, and absolutely guilt-free bhel!

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Makhana Bhel Recipe: A Crunchy, Guilt-Free Evening Munch

Author: ganesh

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 15 mins

Cooking Temp: 320  F Servings: 2 Estimated Cost: $ 50 Calories: 130 kcal per serving

Best Season: All year

Description

This no-fry snack combines the nutrition of makhana with the spicy, tangy flavors of street-style bhel—ready in minutes and perfect for mindful munching.

Ingredient

Servings

• 2 cups makhana (fox nuts)
• 1 tsp oil or ghee – for roasting
• ½ cup onion – finely chopped
• ½ cup tomato – finely chopped (deseeded)
• 1 green chili – finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp coriander leaves – chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – freshly squeezed
• ½ tsp ½ tsp chaat masala – or to taste
• Salt – to taste
• 2 tbsp nylon sev – optional, for crunch
• 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds – optional, for sweetness

Instructions

1. Roast the Makhana

   Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add makhana and roast for 5–6 minutes, stirring continuously until crisp. Set aside to cool.

   Do not burn the makhana; it should be crunchy and lightly golden.

1. Prepare the Veggies

   In a mixing bowl, add chopped onion, tomato, green chili, and coriander leaves.

    

1. Mix It All Together

   Add the cooled roasted makhana to the bowl. Toss in lemon juice, chaat masala, and salt. Mix gently to combine all flavors.

    

1. Add Final Touches

   Top with nylon sev and pomegranate seeds for added texture and flavor.

    

1. Serve Immediately

   Serve the bhel immediately to retain the crunch of makhana.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 130kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 5g8%

Saturated Fat 0.8g4%

Sodium 220mg10%

Potassium 220mg7%

Total Carbohydrate 17g6%

Dietary Fiber 3g12%

Sugars 4g

Protein 4g8%

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Calcium 40 mg

Iron 1.2 mg

Magnesium 30 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Serving Suggestions: Best served immediately to keep the makhana crunchy. Pair with a cup of herbal tea for a balanced snack.

Variations:

• Add boiled sprouts or boiled potatoes for a protein boost.
• Mix in a tablespoon of yogurt for a dahi-bhel twist.

Pro Tips:

• Avoid overloading with wet ingredients to maintain crispiness.
• Use flavored roasted makhana (like peri-peri or mint) for a fun variation.
• Store roasted makhana in an airtight container and assemble the bhel fresh when needed.

Keywords: makhana bhel, healthy bhel recipe, evening snack, fox nut recipe, low calorie snack, roasted makhana snack