How to Make Salted Mixed Nuts (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Salted Mixed Nuts, or 'Namkeen Mix Nuts', are a popular snack across India, especially during festivals like Diwali and Holi. This crunchy and savory treat is a staple in Indian households, often served as a quick energy boost or as a midday munch during lunch hours. The recipe brings together a variety of locally sourced nuts like badam (almonds), akhrot (walnuts), kaju (cashews), and pista (pistachios), roasted to perfection with minimal oil and seasoned with Indian spices such as kala namak (black salt), mirch powder (red chilli powder), and hing (asafoetida). The nuts are typically roasted on a tawa (griddle), which adds a unique earthy aroma and enhances their natural flavors. This snack is deeply rooted in Indian culinary traditions, as nuts are considered auspicious and are often exchanged as gifts during festive seasons. Salted Mixed Nuts are not only delicious but also symbolize prosperity and health. Their versatility makes them an excellent choice for lunchboxes, festive platters, or even as a light lunch accompaniment. The combination of Indian spices and nuts creates a taste profile that is both comforting and invigorating, appealing to all age groups. This health-conscious recipe uses minimal oil and natural ingredients, making it perfect for calorie tracking and mindful eating.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Badam (Almonds) (Whole, unsalted)
- 1/4 cup Kaju (Cashews) (Whole, unsalted)
- 1/4 cup Akhrot (Walnuts) (Halved, unsalted)
- 1/4 cup Pista (Pistachios) (Shelled, unsalted)
- 2 tbsp Chana (Roasted Bengal gram) (Optional for extra crunch)
- 1/2 tsp Kala Namak (Black Salt) (For authentic flavor)
- 1 pinch Hing (Asafoetida) (Optional, for aroma)
- 1/4 tsp Mirch Powder (Red Chilli Powder) (Adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Haldi (Turmeric Powder) (For color and health)
- 1 tsp Sarson ka Tel (Mustard Oil) (Cold-pressed, for roasting)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat a tawa (griddle) on low flame and add sarson ka tel (mustard oil)
Heat a tawa (griddle) on low flame and add sarson ka tel (mustard oil). Swirl to coat the surface evenly.
Step 2 · Add badam (almonds)
Add badam (almonds), kaju (cashews), akhrot (walnuts), and pista (pistachios) to the tawa. Roast on low-medium flame, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3 · Once the nuts turn slightly golden and aromatic
Once the nuts turn slightly golden and aromatic, add chana (roasted Bengal gram) if using.
Step 4 · Sprinkle kala namak
Sprinkle kala namak, mirch powder, haldi, and hing over the nuts. Toss well so the spices coat all nuts evenly.
Step 5 · Continue roasting for another 1-2 minutes until the spices release ...
Continue roasting for another 1-2 minutes until the spices release their aroma. Remove from heat.
Step 6 · Let the salted mixed nuts cool completely
Let the salted mixed nuts cool completely. Serve in a small bowl or store in an airtight container.
Why this recipe is healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it uses unsalted, raw nuts roasted with minimal oil and spices, avoiding added preservatives or unnecessary calories. The nuts deliver monounsaturated fats, which support heart health, and the spices offer metabolic and digestive benefits. Ideal for those seeking healthy lunch snacks that satisfy hunger without excess calories.
A note on tradition
Salted Mixed Nuts are commonly prepared in North Indian households during festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Raksha Bandhan as a symbol of prosperity and good health. Nut-based snacks are also popular in South India, paired with chai or as part of lunch spreads. Traditionally, nuts are gifted and consumed during winter months, as they provide warmth and nutrition. Their versatility makes them a staple in Indian lunchboxes and festive platters.