Mathri is a popular Indian savory snack, often enjoyed with tea. While traditional mathri is typically made using refined flour (maida) and a generous amount of oil, a healthier version is an excellent alternative if you want to balance taste with nutrition. This version is prepared using whole wheat flour, semolina (suji), and less oil. It has a long shelf life, making it a perfect snack for travel or for satisfying those evening hunger pangs.

Ingredients
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup semolina (suji)
2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
2 tablespoons ghee or oil
1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
Salt to taste
Warm water, as needed
A little oil for baking or shallow frying

Preparation Method
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, semolina, and gram flour. Add the carom seeds, dried fenugreek leaves, black pepper, and salt. Next, add the ghee or oil and rub the mixture thoroughly with your hands. You know the fat content (moyan) is perfect when the mixture holds its shape if pressed into a fist.

Gradually add warm water and knead into a firm dough. Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes; this allows the semolina to swell, ensuring the mathris turn out extra crispy.

After the resting period, knead the dough lightly once more and divide it into small portions (balls). Roll out each portion into a slightly thick disc and prick the surface a few times using a fork. This prevents the mathris from puffing up during baking or frying, resulting in a crispier texture.

For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 180°C. Place the mathris on a baking tray and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip them over once halfway through so that they turn golden brown evenly on both sides.
If you do not have an oven, heat a small amount of oil in a pan (kadhai) and fry the mathris over low heat until they turn golden brown. Frying them over high heat will cook the outside, but the inside will not become crispy.

Serving Suggestions
Allow the prepared healthy mathris to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. They can be served with tea, coffee, green chutney, or pickles. Made with whole wheat flour and semolina, these crispy mathris are not only delicious but also more nutritious than traditional versions. The entire family can enjoy them.

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