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MAKHANA RECIPES FOR ELDERLY

RECIPE- 1

1. Ghee Makhana (Haldi & Pepper)

Lightly nutty with a warm, earthy aroma from turmeric and a subtle, gentle heat from black pepper. Each bite is crisp yet easy to chew, making it comforting and nourishing for elderly palates.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups makhana (fox nuts)
  • 1 tbsp ghee
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of salt

Preparation Steps:

  1. Heat ghee in a non-stick pan over low-medium heat.
  2. Add makhana and roast gently for 6–8 minutes until crisp.
  3. Sprinkle turmeric, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Serve warm as a light, healthy snack.

Did you know? Makhana is naturally high in protein and low in fat, and when combined with turmeric and pepper, it becomes a heart-friendly and anti-inflammatory snack.

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RECIPE- 2

2. Makhana Kheer (Low Sugar)

Creamy and mildly sweet with tender, soft makhana that melts in the mouth. The subtle cardamom flavor adds warmth and aroma, making it a comforting and gentle dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup makhana
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1–2 tsp sugar or jaggery (adjust to taste)
  • 2–3 cardamom pods, crushed
  • Chopped nuts for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps:

  1. Roast makhana lightly in a pan until golden.
  2. Boil milk in a saucepan and add crushed cardamom.
  3. Add roasted makhana and simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes until soft.
  4. Add sugar/jaggery and stir gently.
  5. Garnish with finely chopped nuts if desired and serve warm or chilled.

Did you know? Makhana has been consumed in India for centuries for its nutritional benefits, especially as a soft, digestible addition to desserts for all ages.

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RECIPE- 3

3. Makhana Porridge

Creamy, smooth, and comforting with tender, slightly crunchy bits of makhana. Naturally lightly sweetened and aromatic, it is easy to eat and soothing for the stomach.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup roasted makhana
  • ¼ cup oats (optional for texture)
  • 1 cup milk or plant-based milk
  • ½ tsp cinnamon or cardamom
  • 1 tsp honey or jaggery (optional)

Preparation Steps:

  1. Roast oats lightly in a pan for 2–3 minutes (if using).
  2. Add milk to the pan and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Crush roasted makhana lightly and add to the milk.
  4. Stir in honey/jaggery and cinnamon/cardamom.
  5. Simmer for 5 minutes until creamy. Serve warm.

Did you know? Softened in milk, makhana provides protein and a gentle nutty flavor, making it ideal for easy-to-digest breakfasts or snacks for elderly adults.

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RECIPE- 4

4. Makhana Soup

Light, savory, and subtly nutty, with soft pieces of makhana floating in warm broth. The soup is soothing, hydrating, and gentle on the palate, perfect for a light, comforting meal.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup roasted makhana
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp ghee
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped coriander for garnish

Preparation Steps:

  1. Heat ghee in a pan and add roasted makhana; sauté for 2–3 minutes.
  2. Add broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until makhana softens slightly.
  4. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Garnish with chopped coriander and serve warm.

Did you know? Even when softened in liquid, makhana retains a light, airy texture while providing protein and gentle nutrition for a light meal.

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RECIPE- 5

5. Makhana Khichdi

Mild, comforting, and slightly nutty with a soft, porridge-like texture. The khichdi is gently spiced and easy to swallow, while the tender makhana adds subtle crunch and protein, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup makhana
  • ¼ cup rice
  • ¼ cup moong dal (yellow split lentils)
  • 1 tsp ghee
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3 cups water
  • Optional: soft vegetables like carrot or beans

Preparation Steps:

  1. Roast makhana lightly in a pan until crisp. Set aside.
  2. Wash rice and moong dal together.
  3. In a pressure cooker or pot, heat ghee and add turmeric.
  4. Add rice, dal, and water (and vegetables if using). Cook until soft and mushy.
  5. Add roasted makhana and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Serve warm as a soft, wholesome meal.

Did you know? Makhana absorbs flavors and softens when cooked, making it a nutritious addition to light, complete meals suitable for elderly digestion.

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