Namak Para

Namak Para is a traditional lahori snack served with tea. These are basically fried bread sticks which can be topped with many things to spice them up like chat masalas, cayenne etc. They can be used as a topping on different kinds of chat papris as well. Its a yummy finger food and can be stored in dry cool place for up to a week. Makes a wonderful idea for kids lunch boxes as well.
Another easy to make yet wonderfully tasting snack.

Ingredients

All purpose flour                              2 cups
Salt                                                  1 tsp
Cumin seeds                                     1 tsp
Carom seeds                                    1/4 tsp (Optional)
Oil                                                    2 tbsp plus for frying
Water                                              enough to make a hard dough

Method

1. Crack cumin seeds by rubbing between the palm of your hands. Do the same for carom seeds, if using.
2. Put flour, salt, cumin seeds and carom seeds in a bowl. 
3. Add oil and rub in the flour well.
4. Add water to make a firm dough. No need to knead the dough, just enough till it all comes together in a ball.
5. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
6. Make two balls and roll them into 1/8th of inch thick. Cut into strips around 3/4 inch by 3 inches.
7. Heat the oil medium low heat. Add the cut slices of dough and stir them frequently to get even coloring.
8. Fry till all crispy and golden brown.

Note:
The trick to get crispy namak para is to used slightly cold water for the dough.
Fry them on low medium heat or you will have soggy namak para.
You can also add 1.4 tsp of cracked black pepper to get spicy flavour.
Use a pizza cutter for clean straight lines.