Vegetable Chops: A Flavorful Bengali Snack
Every region of India boasts its own unique street food culture, and in Bengal, one of the beloved and iconic snacks is Vegetable Chops. This mouthwatering snack is not just a treat but a perfect representation of the region’s rich culinary heritage. Vegetable Chops combine a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices, wrapped in a crunchy, golden breadcrumb coating. These delectable vegetable-filled patties are typically enjoyed as a tea-time snack and are an absolute favorite in most Bengali households. The crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior make it a perfect companion to a cup of hot chai.
In this recipe, a variety of seasonal vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and beetroot come together, seasoned with cumin, ginger, and green chilies to create a delectable filling. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting snack, Vegetable Chops are sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients for Vegetable Chops
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots (Gajjar) | 2, finely chopped |
| Beetroot | 1, finely chopped |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 2, boiled and mashed |
| Green peas (Matar) | 1/4 cup |
| Sweet corn | 1/4 cup |
| Onions | 2, finely chopped |
| Green Chillies | 4, chopped |
| Ginger | 1 tsp, grated |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 tbsp |
| Red Chilli powder | 1-1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For frying |
| Corn flour | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 1 tbsp |
| Whole Wheat Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup |
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Bengali
Diet: Vegetarian
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Vegetables
Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the skins off the carrots, beetroot, and potatoes. Then, chop the carrots, beetroot, and potatoes into small pieces. Transfer all the chopped vegetables, along with the green peas and sweet corn, into a pressure cooker. Add cumin powder and salt to the mixture. Cook the vegetables under pressure for about 3 whistles, allowing them to soften. Once done, discard the water from the cooked vegetables and mash them well. Set the mashed vegetables aside to cool.
2. Sauteing the Aromatics
Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Saute them until the onions turn slightly brown and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the filling and adds a beautiful depth of taste.
3. Mixing the Spices
Now, add the mashed vegetables to the pan along with salt, cumin powder, and red chili powder. Stir everything together well, making sure the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices. Allow the mixture to cook for a few minutes, so the flavors meld together and the spices infuse the vegetables. Once cooked, switch off the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
4. Shaping the Chops
Once the vegetable mixture has cooled, take small portions and shape them into small lemon-sized balls. Flatten each ball gently, then shape them into oblong or cylindrical forms, resembling traditional vegetable chops. Set the shaped vegetable chops aside on a plate.
5. Coating the Chops
In a small bowl, add the corn flour and water, mixing them to form a smooth paste. Now, take each shaped vegetable chop and dip it carefully into the corn flour mixture. After coating it in the corn flour paste, roll the chop in whole wheat bread crumbs, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides. Repeat this step for all the chops.
6. Deep-Frying the Vegetable Chops
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully lower the coated vegetable chops into the pan. Fry them for 1-2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Be sure to fry them in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once cooked, remove the chops from the oil and drain them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
7. Serving the Vegetable Chops
Serve these delicious vegetable chops hot with a cup of tea as a perfect tea-time snack. Their crispy exterior and flavorful filling will surely be a hit with your friends and family.
Tips and Variations:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as spinach, cabbage, or even peas and carrots for a different twist on the recipe.
- Spice Adjustments: If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of green chilies or red chili powder. You can also add a pinch of garam masala for a deeper spice profile.
- Make It Vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian, but for a vegan option, ensure that the bread crumbs and oil used are free from animal products.
Allergen Information:
- Contains: Gluten (from bread crumbs), Corn (from corn flour), and potentially soy (from oil, depending on brand).
- Note: If you are sensitive to gluten, use gluten-free bread crumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based and can be enjoyed by vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs.
Conclusion:
Vegetable Chops are an authentic Bengali snack that encapsulates the essence of street food culture. With their soft, spiced vegetable filling encased in a crunchy, golden breadcrumb coating, these savory treats are sure to make your tea-time special. Whether served as an appetizer or as a quick snack, Vegetable Chops offer a delightful bite of Bengalβs culinary heritage. The recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for both casual gatherings and family evenings.
