In the realm of Indian snacks, the crunchy and wholesome khakhra holds a special place. A versatile and delicious treat, khakhra is not only a popular accompaniment to chai but also a healthy alternative to many traditional snacks. Making khakhra at home has been a cherished tradition, and with the advent of technology, the process has become even more accessible, thanks to khakhra-making machines.
How To Make khakhra
Here’s how to make khakhra –
Gathering Ingredients:
Before diving into the process, it’s essential to assemble all the ingredients. The basic ingredients for khakhra include:
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Whole wheat flour
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Water
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Salt (to taste)
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Oil or ghee (for brushing the khakhra)
Ensure that the whole wheat flour is fresh and of high quality, as it plays a crucial role in determining the texture and taste of the khakhra.
Preparing the Dough
Start by placing the whole wheat flour in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add water and knead the dough until it reaches a smooth and pliable consistency. The goal is to achieve a dough that is neither too soft nor too stiff. Add salt to taste and continue kneading to ensure even distribution.
Letting the Dough Rest
Allow the khakhra dough to rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the gluten in the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out the khakhra later. Cover the dough with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
Setting Up the Khakhra-Making Machine
While the dough is resting, set up the khakhra-making machine. Ensure that it is clean and well-maintained. Most khakhra-making machines have adjustable settings for thickness, allowing you to control the final texture of the khakhra. Set the khakhra maker to your desired thickness level.
Dividing the Dough
After the resting period, divide the dough into small, even-sized balls. The size of the balls will determine the size of the khakhra, so you can adjust it based on your preference.
Rolling Out the Khakhra
Take one dough ball and flatten it slightly with your hands. Place it on the khakhra-making machine and roll it out using the machine’s rollers. The machine will automatically press and thin out the dough, creating a perfectly round and uniform khakhra. Repeat this process for each dough ball.
Cooking on the Machine
Once rolled out, place the khakhra on the heated surface of the khakhra making machine. The machine will cook the khakhra on both sides simultaneously, ensuring an even and golden-brown finish. Depending on the machine, this process usually takes a few seconds for each side.
Puffing
Some khakhra-making machine for home comes with a feature for puffing the khakhra. If your machine has this option, you can let the khakhra puff slightly on the heated surface. Puffing adds an extra layer of crispiness to the khakhra.
Brushing with Oil or Ghee
As the khakhra cooks, keep a brush with oil or ghee handy. Once the khakhra is fully cooked, lightly brush it with oil or ghee. This step not only enhances the flavour but also contributes to the khakhra’s crispiness.
Storing the Khakhra
After making a batch of khakhra, let them cool completely before storing them. Once cooled, store the khakhra in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunchiness.
Tips for Perfect Khakhra
Experiment with Flavors: You can add various spices and herbs to the dough to create flavoured khakhras. Cumin, sesame seeds, or even fenugreek leaves can add an extra layer of taste.
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Control Thickness: Adjust the thickness setting on the khakhra-making machine to achieve your preferred texture. Thinner khakhras tend to be crispier.
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Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature of the khakhra-making machine. If it’s too hot, the khakhras may cook too quickly, affecting their texture.
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Practice Patience: Rolling out the dough and cooking the khakhra may take a bit of practice. Be patient and allow yourself to get familiar with the machine’s settings.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Khakhra Making and Khakhra Benefits
With a reliable khakhra-making machine, crafting perfect khakhras at home becomes an enjoyable and efficient process. Experiment with different flavours, thickness levels, and cooking times to find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds. Embrace the convenience of technology while savouring the traditional delight of homemade khakhras – a fusion that encapsulates the essence of modern Indian kitchens.