Try this Roasted Phool Makhana (Fox Nuts) recipe.
Substituting ghee for oil alters the smoke point and adds rich dairy solids that brown faster, requiring you to drop the burner heat by ten percent to prevent scorching. Heavy cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, but thin aluminum pans heat up instantly and demand constant agitation of the lotus seeds. Spread the two cups of seeds in a single layer without overcrowding the cooking surface. Keep the flame at medium-low for eight to ten minutes. You must stir continuously using a wide silicone spatula to ensure the heat transfers evenly across every irregular surface. Test for doneness by pressing a seed firmly between your thumb and forefinger. A properly roasted fox nut shatters cleanly into fine pieces rather than bending or remaining chewy in the center.
Fox nuts absorb ambient moisture rapidly from the air due to their porous cellular structure. Cool the batch completely on an ungreased baking sheet before transferring them to storage. Seal them inside an airtight glass jar immediately to preserve the crisp texture for up to five days. Avoid plastic containers, which often retain residual humidity. If the seeds soften over time, restore their initial crunch by tossing them back into a dry skillet over low heat for two minutes.