Gilka Bhajji Recipe: Silk Squash Fritters
Embark on a culinary journey with this delightful Maharashtrian snack, Gilka Bhajji, featuring the unique and tender silk squash. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft within, these fritters are a fantastic addition to your tea time table, guaranteed to impress your family and friends alike. This recipe promises a burst of flavor and texture, making it an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gilka (sponge/silk squash) | 4, ends removed and sliced |
| Gram flour (besan) | 3/4 cup |
| Rice flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Ajwain (carom seeds) | 2 teaspoons |
| Red chili powder (or green chili paste) | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Garlic, grated | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (mixed with water) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh coriander (dhania) leaves | A handful |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | For deep frying |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
Preparation Time
| Time Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep | 10 mins |
| Cook | 20 mins |
| Total | 30 mins |
Servings
| Servings |
|---|
| 4 |
Instructions
To begin crafting your Gilka Bhajji, we’ll first prepare the batter that will envelop our silk squash slices in a flavorful embrace. In a spacious mixing bowl, take the time to sieve together the gram flour, rice flour, salt, turmeric powder, and red chili powder, ensuring a light and airy mixture.
Next, fold in the ajwain seeds, freshly chopped coriander leaves, lemon juice, and grated garlic into the dry ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This fragrant mixture is the foundation of your bhajji.
As you prepare the batter, heat a generous amount of sunflower oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium heat, waiting patiently until the oil shimmers with readiness. Once the oil is hot, take a tablespoon of this heated oil and add it to your flour mixture, mixing it well. This step not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to that much-desired crispiness.
Now, gradually add water to the mixture to achieve a thick batter of dropping consistency, ensuring it will adequately coat the squash slices. Gently fold in the sliced gilka, making sure each piece is evenly coated in this rich batter.
Carefully drop the batter-coated gilka slices into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan; this will allow them to fry evenly. Cook on medium heat until they turn a glorious golden brown, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes per batch. The inside of the fritters should be soft and tender, providing a delightful contrast to the crisp exterior.
Once they are beautifully golden and cooked through, use a slotted spoon to lift the Gilka Bhajji from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drain off. Place them on a plate lined with absorbent paper to catch any remaining oil.
These delectable fritters are best served hot, accompanied by a tangy date and tamarind chutney or a zesty chili garlic sauce. Not only do they make for an exquisite snack, but they also embody the essence of love and warmth in every bite, making them a cherished recipe for gatherings, celebrations, or simply to enjoy on a cozy evening at home.
Enjoy Your Culinary Creation!
Indulge in the delightful flavors and textures of Gilka Bhajji, and let the warmth of this Maharashtrian specialty bring joy to your table. Perfect for sharing, this recipe is a celebration of both tradition and taste, promising to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
