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Namak Pare | Namak Para Recipe

Namak Para

Namak Pare, also known as Namak Para or savory diamond cuts, are crispy, spiced, and deep-fried Indian snacks popular during festivals like Diwali and Holi, and commonly enjoyed as a tea-time treat. They are made with a firm dough of flour, semolina, and spices, then cut into diamond shapes and fried until golden brown.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • All-purpose flour maida: 2 cups (240g)
  • Semolina sooji/rava: 1–2 tablespoons (15–30g)
  • Carom seeds ajwain: 1 teaspoon (5g)
  • Salt: ½ to 1 teaspoon 3–6g, or to taste
  • Crushed black pepper: ½ to 1 teaspoon 2–5g
  • Ghee or oil: 3–5 tablespoons 45–75ml
  • Water: ½ to ¾ cup 120–180ml, as needed
  • Oil for frying: As required

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Heavy-bottomed frying pan or kadai
  • Slotted spoon or perforated ladle
  • Paper towels or baking tray for draining
  • Damp kitchen cloth or lid for covering dough

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, semolina, carom seeds, salt, and crushed black pepper.
  2. Add ghee or oil and mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the flour is evenly coated and crumbly.
  3. The mixture should hold its shape when pressed between the palms.
  4. Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead the dough until it becomes firm and tight—similar in texture to puri dough.
  5. Avoid making it too soft, as this can result in less crisp results.
  6. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20–30 minutes.
  7. After resting, knead the dough briefly and divide it into 2–4 equal portions.
  8. Roll each portion into a circle or square about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thick on a lightly floured surface.
  9. Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the rolled dough into diamond shapes by making vertical lines first, then horizontal lines at an angle.
  10. Heat oil in a deep pan to medium-low temperature (around 325–350°F or 160–175°C).
  11. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking.
  12. Carefully drop a few namak pare into the oil at a time, stirring gently with a perforated ladle to prevent sticking.
  13. Fry on low to medium heat until golden brown and crisp, about 10–15 minutes per batch.
  14. The snacks will continue to brown slightly after removal from oil.
  15. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  16. Allow to cool completely before storing.

Notes

Safety Notes:
Use caution when handling hot oil. Never leave the pan unattended. Ensure the oil is not overheated to prevent burning or fire hazards.
Substitutions:
Whole wheat flour (atta) can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version.
Ghee can be replaced with vegetable oil or sunflower oil.
Ajwain can be substituted with cumin seeds or omitted if preferred.
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend (though texture may vary).
Storage: Store cooled namak pare in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10–15 days.
Avoid humid environments to maintain crispness.
Pro Tips:
The dough must be firm and tight—this is crucial for achieving a crisp, flaky texture.
Fry on low to medium heat to ensure even cooking and crispiness without burning.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean, even cuts to prevent tearing during frying.
Resting the dough is essential for easier rolling and better texture.
If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook to incorporate oil for a flakier result.
This recipe is suitable for vegetarians and can be made ahead of time for festivals or g