Namkeen / Nimki

Crispy, crunchy perfection: Namkeen made with Agrim Maida.

Crispy homemade tea-time snack seasoned with aromatic seeds.

INGREDIENTS

For the Dough

All-purpose flour
2 tbsp ghee (can replace with oil or butter)
1 tsp nigella seeds
Salt to taste
Carom seeds (ajwain)
Water (as needed for kneading)

For Frying

~1 liter cooking oil

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare Dough

Take a large bowl and add all-purpose flour.
Add ghee, nigella seeds, and salt.
Rub carom seeds between palms to release flavor, then add to bowl.
Mix dry ingredients thoroughly (mixing ghee with flour is key for crispiness).
Add water gradually and knead for 5–7 minutes until soft.
Cover and rest for about 1 hour (or at least 20 minutes).

Step 2: Roll

Knead the dough again on a working surface.
Divide into 4–5 medium-sized balls.
Apply oil to the working surface (avoid dry flour to keep oil clean).
Roll dough as big and thin as possible.

Step 3: Cut

Cut the rolled dough lengthwise into strips.
Cut diagonally to create diamond shapes.

Step 4: Fry

Heat oil on low-medium flame (do not overheat).
Add Nimki to oil; stir to separate them.
Fry for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Remove when golden brown.

Step 5: Cool & Store

Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Allow to cool completely before storing.

FINAL RESULT

A crunchy, golden snack that tastes perfect with winter tea and can be stored for up to a month in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

Flavor Tip: Rubbing carom seeds is essential to release their full aroma.
Texture: Do not skip mixing the ghee into the dry flour; this step ensures the Nimki turns out crispy rather than hard.
Frying: If you prefer a darker color, fry for a couple of extra minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Send Your Recipe Story

Share your story along with pictures through our social media channels.