Makhana Cutlets
Makhana Cutlets are delightful and crunchy snacks perfect for Navratras fasting. Made from makhana (foxnuts) blended with boiled potatoes and aromatic spices, these cutlets are shallow-fried until golden brown and crispy. Makhana, known for their nutty flavor and crunchy texture, add a unique twist to these cutlets, making them both satisfying and wholesome. With the goodness of potatoes and the crunchiness of makhana, these cutlets are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them an ideal choice for fasting meals during Navratras.
The charm of Makhana Cutlets lies in their simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a batch of these flavorful cutlets to enjoy as a snack or appetizer during fasting. Whether served hot with fasting-friendly chutneys or accompanied by a refreshing yogurt dip, Makhana Cutlets are sure to be a hit among fasting devotees and non-fasters alike. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, these cutlets offer a delightful burst of flavor and texture in every bite, making them a must-try dish during Navratras.
Ingredients Required for Making Makhana Cutlets
- Makhana (मखाना) – 1 cup
- Potatoes (आलू) – 2 medium-sized, boiled and mashed
- Singhare ka atta (सिंघाड़े का आटा) – 2 tablespoons
- Green chili (हरी मिर्च) – 1, finely chopped
- Ginger (अदरक) – 1 teaspoon, grated
- Sendha namak (सेंधा नमक) – to taste
- Red chili powder (लाल मिर्च पाउडर) – 1/2 teaspoon
- Cumin powder (जीरा पाउडर) – 1/2 teaspoon
- Fresh coriander leaves (ताजा धनिया पत्ती) – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Ghee (घी) – for shallow-frying
Step-wise Process of Making Makhana Cutlets
- Prepare the Mixture: In a dry skillet or pan, dry roast the makhana until they become crisp and crunchy. Allow them to cool, then coarsely grind them in a food processor or crush them using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed makhana, mashed potatoes, singhare ka atta, chopped green chili, grated ginger, sendha namak, red chili powder, cumin powder, and chopped coriander leaves. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated and form a smooth mixture.
- Shape the Cutlets: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into round or oval-shaped cutlets. Ensure that the cutlets are compact and hold their shape well.
- Shallow-fry the Cutlets: Heat ghee in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, carefully place the cutlets in the pan, leaving some space between them. Shallow-fry the cutlets until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Once the cutlets are evenly golden brown and crispy, remove them from the pan and drain excess ghee on paper towels. Serve hot with fasting-friendly chutneys or dips of your choice.
Number of Servings
This recipe makes approximately 6 Makhana Cutlets.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time Required
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish
- Roasting Makhana: Ensure that the makhana are roasted until they become crisp but not burnt. This step enhances their flavor and texture.
- Consistency of Mixture: The mixture should be well-combined and hold its shape when shaped into cutlets. Adjust the quantity of singhare ka atta if needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Shallow-frying: Use sufficient ghee for shallow-frying to achieve a crispy and golden exterior for the cutlets.
- Even Cooking: Flip the cutlets occasionally while frying to ensure that they cook evenly on both sides.
How to Serve Makhana Cutlets
Serve hot and crispy Makhana Cutlets as a snack or appetizer during Navratras fasting. Pair them with fasting-friendly chutneys such as mint chutney or yogurt dip for a burst of flavor. Enjoy these delicious cutlets with family and friends as a wholesome and satisfying treat during the festive period.
Final Thoughts…
Makhana Cutlets are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that make for a perfect snack or appetizer during Navratras fasting. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, these cutlets are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, indulge in the goodness of Makhana Cutlets during the festive season and savor the flavors of tradition and celebration.
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