Mix Nuts
Lunch • India
How to Make Mix Nuts (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mix Nuts, or 'Milajula Meva', is a timeless Indian snack cherished across all regions, especially during festive seasons like Diwali and Holi. Traditionally, nuts such as badam (almonds), akhrot (walnuts), kaju (cashews), pista (pistachios), and chana (roasted chickpeas) are roasted and lightly spiced for a nourishing treat that embodies both taste and health. In Indian households, offering a bowl of mixed nuts is a gesture of warmth and hospitality, often served to guests with chai or as an energy-boosting snack during lunch. The flavors reflect the diversity of India’s culinary landscape: from the rich, earthy notes of North Indian spices to the subtle hints of coconut and curry leaves in South India. Mix Nuts are also prepared in a variety of ways across regions — some prefer them plain, others toss them with masala or a touch of ghee, making this dish adaptable for any palate. Their crunch and natural sweetness make them both satisfying and wholesome, making Mix Nuts a perfect fit for calorie-conscious eaters seeking authentic Indian flavors.
Ingredients(for 1 small katori (bowl) per person)
- 1/4 cup Badam (Almonds) (Whole or sliced)
- 1/4 cup Akhrot (Walnuts) (Broken pieces)
- 1/4 cup Kaju (Cashews) (Whole or halves)
- 1/4 cup Pista (Pistachios) (Shelled)
- 1/4 cup Roasted Chana (Chana dal or whole)
- 2 tbsp Raisins (Kishmish) (Optional for sweetness) - optional
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Powder (Kali Mirch) (Freshly ground)
- 1/2 tsp Rock Salt (Sendha Namak) (For taste)
- 1 tsp Ghee (Desi ghee for roasting) - optional
- 1/2 tsp Chaat Masala (Optional Indian masala) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash and pat dry all nuts (badam, akhrot, kaju, pista) to ensure cleanliness. Keep raisins aside.
5 minutes
Drying prevents soggy texture during roasting.
- 2
Heat a heavy-bottomed kadhai or tawa on low flame. Add ghee (optional) and allow it to melt.
2 minutes
Use a tawa for even roasting; skip ghee for vegan adaptation.
- 3
Add all nuts and roasted chana to the kadhai. Stir continuously for 8-10 minutes till they turn golden and aromatic.
10 minutes
Keep flame low to avoid burning and preserve nutrients.
- 4
Add black pepper powder and rock salt. Toss well to coat nuts evenly with spices.
2 minutes
Adjust seasoning to taste; chaat masala can add tangy flavor.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Mix Nuts are heart-healthy and nutrient-dense, making them an excellent choice for lunch or as a midday snack. Their low glycemic index keeps blood sugar stable, while the mix of unsaturated fats and fiber aids weight management. Roasting without excess oil preserves their nutritional value, and using Indian spices boosts flavor without extra calories. This recipe is ideal for those seeking healthy Indian vegetarian options.
Mix Nuts are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering healthy fats, plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins like E, B6, magnesium, and potassium. Almonds and walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while roasted chana adds extra protein and fiber. Cashews and pistachios provide antioxidants and minerals for heart health. Raisins bring natural sweetness and iron. This combination supports energy, satiety, and overall wellness, making it ideal for calorie tracking and balanced diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Roast nuts on low flame to avoid burning and retain nutrients.
- 💡Tip 2: Use sendha namak for a traditional touch and lower sodium.
- 💡Tip 3: Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch and freshness.
Storage & Serving
Store Mix Nuts in an airtight dabba (container) at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Avoid moisture for crispness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 250.0 kcal |
