### Methi Mathri: Indian Snack Recipe
Methi Mathri is a tasty Indian snack that merges the robust tastes of fenugreek leaves with the classic crispiness of mathri. This savory, flaky deep-fried biscuit is a beloved favorite, particularly during festive times such as Diwali, Holi, and Karwa Chauth. Hailing from North India, especially Rajasthan and Punjab, Methi Mathri is frequently paired with achaar (pickle) and is a common item during tea time.
#### Ingredients
To make Methi Mathri, you require the following components:
– **2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)**
– **1/2 cup semolina (sooji)**
– **1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)**
– **1/2 cup dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)**
– **1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)**
– **1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)**
– **1/2 teaspoon black pepper (kala mirch)**
– **1 teaspoon anardana (dried pomegranate seeds)**
– **Salt to taste**
– **Water as required for kneading**
– **Oil for deep frying**
#### Instructions
1. **Make the Dough:**
– In a sizable mixing bowl, blend the all-purpose flour and semolina together.
– Incorporate ghee and mix it into the flour until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
– Add in the dried fenugreek leaves, ajwain, cumin seeds, black pepper, anardana, and salt.
– Slowly add water and knead the mixture into a sturdy dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for approximately 30 minutes.
2. **Form the Mathris:**
– After resting, separate the dough into small equal pieces.
– Shape each piece into a small ball and then flatten it into a disc about 1/4 inch thick, using a rolling pin if needed.
– Use a fork to prick the top of each disc to stop them from puffing during frying.
3. **Cook the Mathris:**
– Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
– Once the oil is hot, gently add the rolled mathris, a few at a time, taking care not to overcrowd the pan.
– Fry them until they become golden brown and crispy, flipping them occasionally for even cooking.
– Take out the fried mathris and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. **Serve:**
– Let the Methi Mathris cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.
– Pair them with mirchi ka achar or your favorite chutney for a highly enjoyable snack experience.
### Conclusion
Methi Mathri is more than just a snack; it represents a fusion of flavors and textures that captures the spirit of Indian cuisine. Its distinctive mix of spices and the introduction of fenugreek leaves make it a wholesome and tasty choice for any event. Whether relished during festivals or as a tea-time snack, Methi Mathri is bound to delight everyone. Try this recipe and savor the wonderful crunch of homemade mathris!