नमकीन शकरपारे (Namkeen Shakkarpara/ Salted Tea Time Snack) by Tarla Dalal

Preparation Time: 10 minutes.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes.

Makes 3 cups

1½ cups plain flour (maida)

½ cup finely chopped fenugreek leaves (methi)

1½ tsp chilli powder ¼ tsp turmeric powder (haldi)

½ tsp asafoetida (hing) ¼ cup curds (dahi)

2 tsp sesame seeds (til)

1 tbsp melted ghee

Salt to taste

Oil for deep-frying

1. Combine all the ingredients in a deep bowl, mix well and knead into a stiff dough using approx. 1 tbsp of water.

2. Divide the dough into 5 equal portions.

3. Roll out a portion of the dough into a 175 mm. (7") diameter circle.

4. Prick the surface with a fork at regular intervals.

5. Cut into 25 mm. (1") diamond shaped pieces.

6. Heat the oil in a deep non-stick pan and deep-fry the namkeen shakkarparas, on a slow flame till they turn golden brown in colour and crisp from both the sides. Drain on an absorbent paper.

7. Repeat steps 3 to 6 to make more namkeen shakkarparas in 4 more batches.

8. Cool completely and store in an air-tight container.

Handy Tips:

1. You do not require any flour for rolling, but if necessary a little oil can be used for rolling.

2. Can be stored in air tight container for 15 days and can be given to kids in their tiffin also.