Makhanas, also known as fox nuts, are a nutritious and popular snack. To ensure you get the best quality, it’s important to know how to check the quality of makhanas and understand the different sizes available. Here’s a simple guide to help you.
Checking the Quality of Makhana
Appearance
The best quality makhanas should be whole, round, and white in color. Here’s what to look for:
- Whole and Unbroken: High-quality makhanas are not broken or damaged. Check for pieces that are intact and have a consistent shape.
- Color: They should be white, indicating they are fresh and properly processed. Avoid makhanas that look yellow or discolored, as they may be old or of lower quality.
Texture
When you touch the makhanas, they should feel light and airy. Good quality makhanas are crisp and crunchy, not soft or chewy. If the makhanas feel heavy or moist, they might have absorbed moisture and could be stale.
Taste
Taste is another important factor. Fresh makhanas have a mild, nutty flavor. If they taste bitter or stale, they might not be of good quality or could be past their prime.
Storing Makhana
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of makhanas. Here are some tips:
- Drying: One of the best ways to store makhanas is to dry them in the sun. Spread them on a clean cloth or tray and place them in a sunny spot. This helps reduce moisture and keeps them crisp.
- Airtight Containers: Store makhanas in airtight containers to protect them from moisture and pests. Properly stored makhanas can last a long time, up to 2-3 years in some cases.
- Cool and Dry Place: Keep the containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps maintain their crunchiness and flavor.
Makhana Sizes
Makhanas come in different sizes, which are graded based on their diameter. Understanding the sizes can help you choose the right makhanas for your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the common sizes:
- 3–5 mm: These are the smallest makhanas, suitable for snacks or adding to dishes where a smaller size is preferred.
- 5–7 mm: Slightly larger, these are still small but can be used in a variety of recipes.
- 7–9 mm: A medium size, versatile for snacks and cooking.
- 9–11 mm: These makhanas are getting larger and are good for standalone snacks.
- 11–13 mm: Larger makhanas that are great for snacking or using in special recipes.
- 13–15 mm: These are quite large and make an impressive snack on their own.
- Over 15 mm: The largest size, perfect for premium snacks and special occasions.
Kwality Eat’s Makhana Sizes
At Kwality Eat, we offer different grades of makhanas to suit your needs:
- Budgeted Makhana: Sized between 4-5 suta (12-15 mm). These are affordable and great for everyday snacking.
- Standard Makhana: Sized between 4-6 suta (12-18 mm). These offer a good balance of size and quality, making them ideal for regular use.
- Premium Makhana: Sized between 5-6+ suta (15-20 mm). These are the largest and best quality makhanas, perfect for those who want the finest product.
Conclusion
Checking the quality of makhanas and understanding their sizes is important to ensure you get the best product. Look for whole, round, and white makhanas that feel light and crunchy. Properly store them to maintain their quality. At Kwality Eat, we provide a range of makhanas in different sizes, so you can choose the one that fits your needs. Enjoy the delicious and nutritious benefits of high-quality makhanas!