Rainy season is a time for cozy moments, warm drinks, and comfort food. One of the most beloved snacks during this season is Aloo Ke Kabab, or potato kebabs. These crispy, spiced potato patties are a perfect blend of flavors, ideal for pairing with hot chai (tea) as you enjoy the monsoon. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a snack, Aloo Ke Kabab is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Aloo Ke Kabab at home.
Ingredients:
- Potatoes (boiled) – 4 medium-sized
- Onion (finely chopped) – 1 large
- Green chilies (finely chopped) – 2
- Ginger (grated) – 1 inch piece
- Garlic (finely chopped or crushed) – 2 cloves
- Coriander leaves (chopped) – 2 tablespoons
- Mint leaves (optional, chopped) – 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – to taste
- Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Garam masala – 1/2 teaspoon
- Rice flour or cornflour – 2 tablespoons (for binding)
- Chickpea flour (besan) – 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Breadcrumbs – for coating
- Oil – for shallow frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Begin by boiling the potatoes in water until they are soft and easily mashable. Once done, drain the water and allow them to cool.
- Peel the potatoes and mash them in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Spices and Filling:
- Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the finely chopped onions, green chilies, and garlic until they become translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the grated ginger and cook for another 2 minutes to release its aroma.
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir well and cook the spices for a minute to enhance their flavor.
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
- In the mashed potatoes, add the sautéed onion and spice mixture. Mix well.
- Add lemon juice, coriander leaves, mint leaves (if using), salt, and rice flour (or cornflour) to the potato mixture. The rice flour helps in binding the mixture together.
- If the mixture feels too soft, add a bit of besan (chickpea flour) to thicken it up and make it easier to shape into patties.
- Shape the mixture into round patties or ovals, pressing them gently with your hands to form kebab shapes.
4. Coat the Kebabs:
- Roll the formed patties in breadcrumbs to give them a crispy outer layer. You can also use semolina (rava) for an extra crunchy texture.
5. Fry the Kebabs:
- Heat a little oil in a shallow frying pan over medium heat.
- Gently place the kebabs in the hot oil and cook them until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. This should take about 3–4 minutes on each side.
- Once done, remove the kebabs from the oil and drain excess oil on a paper towel.
6. Serve Hot:
- Serve the Aloo Ke Kababs hot with a side of tangy tamarind chutney or green chutney. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or yogurt for added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Aloo Ke Kabab:
- Texture of Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are boiled well, but not too watery. This helps in achieving the right consistency for the kebab mixture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- Binding the Mixture: If the mixture is too soft or sticky, add a bit more rice flour or breadcrumbs for better binding.
- Variation: You can also add grated paneer or cheese inside the kebabs for a rich, cheesy filling.
Why Aloo Ke Kabab is Perfect for the Rainy Season:
- Comfort Food: The warm, crispy texture of these potato kebabs makes them a perfect comfort food to enjoy during the cool, rainy weather.
- Quick & Easy: The recipe is simple and quick to make with minimal ingredients, making it ideal for rainy days when you want something tasty without much effort.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste, and even add extra ingredients like peas or carrots to the filling.
Aloo Ke Kababs are not just a snack; they are a true treat for the senses, combining crispiness, warmth, and spiciness. So, get ready to indulge in this flavorful recipe and savor the joy of monsoon with every bite!
