Methi Mathri Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Snack
Methi Mathri is a popular Indian snack that is loved for its crispy texture and delightful flavors. It is a traditional treat that is often prepared during festivals, family gatherings, and special occasions. Methi, which means fenugreek leaves, is the key ingredient that lends a unique and earthy flavor to these savory bites. In this comprehensive 1000-word recipe, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making delicious Methi Mathri at home. So, roll up your sleeves, and let's get started with this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
To make Methi Mathri, you will need the following ingredients:
For the dough:
2 cups of all-purpose flour (maida)
2 tablespoons of gram flour (besan)
2 tablespoons of semolina (sooji)
2 tablespoons of dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
1/2 teaspoon of carom seeds (ajwain)
1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds (jeera)
1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
1/4 cup of vegetable oil
Salt to taste
Water, as needed
For frying:
Vegetable oil, for deep frying
Spices and seasonings:
1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala
Salt to taste
Preparation
Start by sifting the all-purpose flour, gram flour, and semolina into a large mixing bowl. This helps to remove any lumps and ensures a smooth dough.
Add the dried fenugreek leaves, carom seeds, cumin seeds, baking soda, and salt to the sifted flour mixture. Mix these dry ingredients well.
Next, add 1/4 cup of vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Rub the oil into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Slowly, add water little by little and knead the mixture into a firm and smooth dough. Be cautious not to overwork the dough, as it can make the mathri hard.
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.
While the dough is resting, heat the vegetable oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium heat. You'll need enough oil to deep fry the mathri.
In the meantime, you can prepare the spice mixture by combining red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt in a small bowl. Set it aside.
Making the Methi Mathri
After the resting period, uncover the dough and give it a gentle knead. Divide it into small, equal-sized portions, roughly the size of a lemon.
Take one portion of the dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Place it on a clean, dry surface and flatten it slightly with your palm.
Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough portion into a circle of about 1/4 inch thickness. You can also use a round cookie cutter or a lid to cut out even shapes from the rolled dough.
Prick the mathri all over with a fork or skewer. This step helps prevent the mathri from puffing up too much while frying.
Repeat this process with the remaining dough portions.
Now it's time to fry the mathri. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Carefully slide the rolled and pricked mathri into the hot oil, one at a time. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan, as it can reduce the temperature of the oil and affect the mathri's texture.
Fry the mathri on medium heat, occasionally flipping them to ensure even cooking. They should turn golden brown and crisp. This should take around 7-8 minutes.
Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the fried mathri from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
While the mathri is still hot, sprinkle the prepared spice mixture evenly over them. Gently press the spices onto the mathri to ensure they stick.
Allow the mathri to cool completely. As they cool, they will become even crispier.
Store the Methi Mathri in an airtight container once they have cooled down completely. They can be stored for several weeks.
Conclusion
Methi Mathri is a beloved Indian snack that is simple to make at home, and this recipe guide breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps. With the earthy flavors of fenugreek leaves and the perfect blend of spices, Methi Mathri is an ideal snack for tea time or any special occasion. Enjoy the crispiness and rich taste of these homemade treats with your family and friends!
26 окт 2023
