Gujarat, a vibrant state in western India, is known for its diverse and delectable cuisine. Among the array of mouth-watering dishes, Nylon Khaman stands out as a beloved snack that has captured the hearts of many. This fluffy, savory treat is perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or even as an appetizer for special occasions. In this blog post, we'll explore the steps to prepare the perfect Nylon Khaman recipe, ensuring a light and spongy texture that will leave you craving more.
What is Nylon Khaman?
Nylon Khaman is a type of dhokla, a steamed savory cake made from fermented batter. What sets Nylon Khaman apart is its incredibly soft and fluffy texture, which is achieved through a specific preparation method and the use of ingredients like gram flour (besan) and fruit salt (Eno). This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it a favorite among busy households and snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients for Nylon Khaman
To prepare Nylon Khaman, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Batter:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 tablespoon semolina (rava/sooji)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon green chili-ginger paste
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon fruit salt (Eno)
For Tempering:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon chopped green chilies
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 10-12 curry leaves
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Garnishing:
- Freshly grated coconut
- Chopped coriander leaves
Steps to Prepare Nylon Khaman
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, semolina, sugar, salt, lemon juice, green chili-ginger paste, and turmeric powder.
- Gradually add water to the mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be smooth and of pouring consistency.
- Just before steaming, add the fruit salt (Eno) to the batter and mix well. The batter will become frothy and increase in volume.
Step 2: Steam the Batter
- Grease a steaming tray or a thali with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour the batter into the greased tray and spread it evenly.
- Place the tray in a steamer and steam for about 15-20 minutes on medium heat. You can check if the Nylon Khaman is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the Khaman is ready.
- Once done, remove the tray from the steamer and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Tempering
- In a small pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add sesame seeds, chopped green chilies, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
- Add water, sugar, and lemon juice to the pan and mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil and then remove it from heat.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Cut the steamed Nylon Khaman into square or diamond-shaped pieces.
- Pour the prepared tempering evenly over the Khaman pieces, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Garnish with freshly grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves.
Your delicious Nylon Khaman is ready to be served! Enjoy this fluffy and flavorful snack with green chutney or sweet tamarind chutney.
Tips for Perfect Nylon Khaman
- Ensure the batter is smooth and lump-free for the best texture.
- Adding fruit salt just before steaming is crucial for achieving the fluffy texture characteristic of Nylon Khaman.
- Do not over-mix the batter after adding fruit salt, as this can deflate the batter.
- Steaming the Khaman on medium heat ensures even cooking and prevents it from becoming dense.
Nylon Khaman is a delightful snack that is easy to prepare and loved by all. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Nylon Khaman recipe will help you create a light and spongy treat that brings the authentic flavors of Gujarat to your kitchen. Enjoy!
By following this detailed recipe, you can master the art of making Nylon Khaman and impress your family and friends with this traditional Gujarati delicacy.
