Shalgam Ke Kebab Recipe (Turnip Patties)
Description:
Shalgam Ke Kebab, a North Indian delicacy, offers a delightful vegetarian alternative to the usual aloo and paneer dishes. This dish, made with simple pantry ingredients, is an excellent way to incorporate turnips into your diet, especially for those who are not fond of their distinct flavor. It is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for those days when you’re pressed for time yet want to prepare a savory, nutritious meal. These turnip patties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an irresistible choice for appetizers or snacks.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Turnips | 500 grams |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 2 tablespoons (powdered) |
| Salt | 1/2-1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1/2-1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil (for frying) | As required |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chana Dal Powder: Begin by making the chana dal powder. Take 2 tablespoons of chana dal and roast it on low heat in a pan. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes, or until you can smell the toasted aroma. Once roasted, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Grind the cooled chana dal into a fine powder using a food processor or dry grinder. This can be made in bulk and stored in an airtight container for future use.
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Boil the Turnips: Cut the turnips into four pieces each and place them in a pot of water. Boil them until they are fully cooked and soft. Once cooked, drain the water and discard it.
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Remove Excess Water: Place the boiled turnip pieces into a muslin or cheesecloth. Wrap the cloth around the turnips and squeeze gently to remove any excess moisture. It is important to get rid of all the water to ensure your kebabs are firm and hold their shape while frying.
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Fry the Onions: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a pan. Add the thinly sliced onions and fry them until they turn golden brown. Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the onions and drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Make the Kebab Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground turnips and fried onions. Add salt, chana dal powder, garam masala powder, and red chili powder to the mixture. Mix everything thoroughly to combine. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt or spices as needed.
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Shape the Kebabs: Divide the mixture into equal portions and form small balls. Flatten each ball slightly to shape them into round patties. If necessary, dampen your hands slightly to smooth out the edges for a uniform shape.
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Fry the Kebabs: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over low to medium heat. Gently place the kebabs in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the kebabs on both sides until they turn golden brown and crisp. Be sure to cook them evenly, turning them as necessary.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once fried to perfection, remove the kebabs from the pan and drain any excess oil on paper towels. These Shalgam Ke Kebab patties are best served hot with a side of refreshing green chutney as a party appetizer or enjoyed with a steaming cup of masala chai as an evening snack.
Allergen Information:
- Contains gluten if served with certain types of bread or dips.
- May contain traces of nuts or other allergens depending on the oil or ingredients used in frying.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian
- Suitable for a gluten-free diet (when served without bread or wheat-based accompaniments).
- Vegan-friendly if ghee is substituted with plant-based oils.
Advice:
Shalgam Ke Kebab is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the spice levels by increasing or reducing the amount of red chili powder. If you’re looking for a bit of extra flavor, try adding a pinch of crushed cumin or coriander seeds to the mixture. Additionally, these kebabs can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. Simply fry them when you’re ready to serve. The kebabs are best enjoyed when freshly made, but they can also be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.
Conclusion:
Shalgam Ke Kebab is a simple yet delicious vegetarian dish that offers a unique twist on traditional North Indian appetizers. The tender turnips, flavorful spices, and crispy texture make this dish a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light snack or as part of a larger meal, these kebabs are sure to impress your guests with their irresistible taste and easy preparation. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful taste of turnips in a whole new way!
