"Navrattan Namkeen" is a popular Indian snack that falls under the category of "namkeen," which refers to savory snacks in India. This particular snack mix is known for its diverse blend of ingredients, often referred to as the "nine jewels" or "navrattan," representing a combination of various flavors and textures. While the exact composition of Navrattan Namkeen may vary among different brands or homemade recipes, it typically includes ingredients like:
Lentils (dal): Various types of lentils, such as moong dal (split green gram) and chana dal (split chickpeas), are commonly used in Navrattan Namkeen.
Nuts: Almonds, cashews, and peanuts are often included for their crunch and nutty flavor.
Seeds: Ingredients like pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds can be part of the mix.
Spices: A blend of spices is used to season the mixture, which can include ingredients like black pepper, red chili powder, cumin seeds, and salt for a savory and spicy flavor.
Dried Fruits: Some variations may include small pieces of dried fruits like raisins for a hint of sweetness to balance the spiciness.
Fried Gram Flour (Besan) Noodles (Sev): These thin, crispy noodles made from gram flour are a common component of Navrattan Namkeen and add a unique texture.
Rice Flakes (Poha): Flattened rice flakes are often added for their crispiness and to provide a light texture to the mix.
Edible Oil: Vegetable oil is used for frying the ingredients, giving them a crispy texture.
Asafoetida (Hing): This spice is sometimes used for flavor enhancement.