Namak para facts for kids
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Alternative names | Spicy Shankarpali, Tukkudi, Namak paray, Nimkin |
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Type | Pastry |
Place of origin | India |
Region or state | Indian Subcontinent |
Main ingredients | Flour (whole wheat, refined, or semolina), cumin, carom seeds, and caraway seeds, ghee |
Nimki or Namak para is a super crunchy and savory snack. People love to eat it in countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. It's a bit like another snack called Mathri, which is popular in parts of India.
Nimki: A Delicious Crunchy Snack!
What is Nimki?
Nimki is a tasty snack made from dough. It looks like small, ribbon-shaped strips. The dough is usually made from fine flour, oil, and water.
This snack gets its special flavor from spices. These often include ajwain (which are carom seeds) and cumin seeds. It's usually cooked in pure ghee (a type of clarified butter) or other oils.
Nimki is quick to make! It takes about 10 minutes to get ready and 20 minutes to cook. When you see, taste, or feel Nimki, it might remind you of the crispy outer part of a samosa.
What Goes Into Nimki?
Besides the main spices, other yummy things can be added to Nimki. Sometimes, people add dried fenugreek leaves. You might also find dried mint leaves for a fresh taste.
The name "Namak para" comes from the word namak, which means "salt." Salt is the main seasoning that gives this snack its savory flavor.
Other ingredients used to make Nimki include different types of flour. These can be atta flour (whole wheat flour) or maida flour (a refined white flour). Sometimes, semolina is also used. A little baking powder and baking soda might be added to make it light and crispy.
Nimki is a very popular snack, especially among kids in India!