Makhana is the Indian Superfood - Grab a handful of these delicious little kernels and savor the unique texture and taste that has people lining up to buy!
Makhana are small, pearly-white seeds about the size of a large grain of wild rice. Some people consider it a gourmet item and include it as a snack food in between meals. Many others enjoy makhana at breakfast time with some yogurt or homemade cheese, like ricotta. It is commonly known as fox nut and has been eaten in India for thousands of years.
There is a well-known Indian proverb that goes, "If you want to be happy for the rest of your life, eat makhana." This saying reflects the importance of this sea bean in Indian culture. Over a hundred years ago, Makhana was used as a replacement for food grains during Hindu rituals where eating grains were forbidden. Today Makhana still has the same health giving properties it had 100 years ago.
Makhana is an ancient food, but with a modern and delicious twist. Makhana, known as the “tree bean” or “bamboo palm fruit”, has been enjoyed and eaten for centuries in countries such as China, Japan, Korea, also Russia and India. Whilst medicinal usage goes back generations, scientific study of Makhana health benefits has begun only relatively recently, but the results have been significant, creating considerable interest. Awareness is building globally and early this year Newsweek heralded Makhana as the “hottest new Superfood snack” in a feature article.
Makhana is one of the richest sources of magnesium and phosphorus, essential for energy and health. An excellent food for the heart and arteries – Makhana slows the absorption of blood into vessels in our body, reducing blood cholesterol levels. It also helps reduce blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels and detoxifies the body by flushing out toxins. It is a high source of protein and fiber, therefore helpful in weight reduction. Makhana also lowers triglycerides that can increase your risk of heart disease. Makhana is a great addition to your diet because it helps you to maintain an optimal body weight without compromising on taste or health benefits.
Roasted in ghee (clarified butter), these light, nutritious snacks are crunchy and easy to pop. Make a batch during the weekend – they store easily and are great for munching on before dinner or after dinner to stave off cravings.
Did you know that makhana dates back to Vedic times, where it was enjoyed during the festivals of Yajna and Mukti? It's no wonder, because it's filled with vitamin B and also promoting important health benefits such as anti-viral, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy (eczema, sinusitis, asthma and hay fever). So next time you enjoy a bowl of makhana post a long day at work or any other stressful activity, treat yourself to the goodness of nature.
Tired of swallowing your tablets? We thought so. Here's a nourishing, natural alternative with makhana – the highest source of Omega-3 in the world. Makhana is an exciting new product that may help keep you healthy on many levels: by aiding digestion, regulating blood sugar levels, keeping skin soft and smooth, quenching thirst as a natural thirst quencher – even helping to lower cholesterol. And did we mention it's naturally anti-inflammatory and rich in calcium?
Some believe that the Makhana nut is a healthier alternative to popcorn. We don’t know about that, but we do know that makhana (or foxnuts) are gluten free, have no trans fats, are low in calories and high in protein and fiber. What’s not to love?
