Makhana Kheer / puffed Lotus seeds Kheer

Hi friends! Makhana kheer is a delicious desert. Makhanas/Fox nuts/Lotus seeds are puffed lotus seeds and are used in making several dishes and snacks. In Northern India Makhanas are often used for snack. Makhana kheer is very easy to make and you can enjoy it as a dessert.

Ingredients:

• 4 Cup of Makhanas , shallow fried and crushed coarsely
• 3   tbsp ghee / butter
• 6   Cups of whole milk
• 12 almonds , thin slices
• 12 pistachios , thin slice
• 1/2 Cup of sugar or/ Sugar to taste
• 1/4 tsp strings of saffron
• 6 green cardamoms, powdered
• 12 Raisins

Method:

Step 1.

In a heavy bottom pan add milk and bring it to boil , turn to medium heat, while keep    stirring periodically (so that milk does not burn from the bottom) till it is thickened or reduced to 70%.

Step 2.

In the mean time heat a wok / Kadahi with ghee. On a high flame fry the makhanas, stirring continuously . when makahanas are well fried, will become crispy.Switch off the stove, cool and coarsely crush the makhanas, keep aside. ( Approx. 5-6 minutes)
Step 3.
Once milk become little thicker add saffron, sautéed makhanna and let the makhanas and milk simmer for 20 to 25 minutes on low heat or until milk reduce to half and of acreamy consistency, stirring frequently.

Step 4.

Once makhannas become soft and milk become thick and creamy add sugar, and sliced nuts, mix and cook for another couple of minutes. Turn the stove off.
Step 5.

Transfer the kheer in a serving bowl and sprinkle other half of nuts. Serve the makhana kheer hot or cold.

Possible health and beauty benefits of Lotus seeds:

Lotus seeds, commonly known as makhana in India, are the seeds of the water lotus plant. The seeds are small, round and white or off-white in appearance. They are the edible seeds of lotus flower which can be roasted or fried. Lotus seeds are used for nutritional and healing properties in Chinese medicine. The lotus seeds are highly useful in terms of nutritional benefits and are low in saturated fats, sodium and cholesterol; high in magnesium potassium, thiamine and phosphorus. Besides being edible, the lotus plant has many health and beauty benefits as well. You can use makhana seeds in desserts, rice porridge, soups and stir fry dishes.

Lotus seeds are also a good source of protein, iron and zinc, which makes them extremely nutritious. They contain the anti-aging enzyme, which assist repair damaged proteins. Due to this anti-aging propery, many cosmetic companies are trying to include the seeds in their products. Along with it, the seeds have a natural flavonoid which prevents inflammation. Lotus seeds have an astringent property which benefits the kidneys and helps to restore vital energy within the body. The sweet and neutral taste of makhana seeds nourish the spleen and alleviate diarrhea. Makhana seeds are endowed with sedative properties and are used to treat insomnia or restlessness. The lotus embryo is useful for heart because of its bitter and cooling properties. Also it can help dilate blood vessels, thus reducing blood pressure.

According to western research, the seeds are antiviral which help fight the herpes 1 virus. Also it has been founded useful in lowering hypertension. One of the vital medicinal benefits of lotus seeds is stopping chronic diarrhea. Due to astringent properties, the seeds are consumed to help relieve the symptoms of diarrhea and improve appetite. Other major benefits of lotus seeds include palpitations, insomnia and irritability. They are also used to control bleeding.

Since makhana seeds are high in fiber, it helps to avoid constipation. Also they help the body to remove the waste; prevent the accumulation of toxins.  Lotus seeds are low in calories, fat and high in fiber and thus helpful in diabetes. It lowers the blood sugar level. The seeds are recommended for women during pregnancy and post natal weakness; helps in female infertility. The makhana seeds are also used in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatic pains. Further, the seeds are beneficial in weight loss too as they are high in fiber and low in calories .Lotus seeds are also very useful in anemia. The lotus seeds can be digested by all age groups. They are a healthy snack for children .Just roast the seeds a bit and add a pinch of salt.
Ref. http://healthyfoodsonly.blogspot.in/2012/11/health-and-beauty-benefits-of-lotus.html

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

• Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
• Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
• Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
• If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
• Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

Save