Rajma Malai Cutlet Recipe: A Delectable North Indian Appetizer
The Rajma Malai Cutlet is a delightful and healthy appetizer that combines the richness of paneer (homemade cottage cheese) with the bold flavors of rajma (large kidney beans) and aromatic spices. This cutlet offers the perfect balance of high-protein nutrition and indulgent taste, making it an ideal choice for a tea-time snack, kitty parties, or even a nutritious snack for children. The added twist of extra virgin olive oil elevates the taste and health quotient, making it a wonderful addition to your repertoire of savory snacks.
Cuisine: North Indian Recipes
Course: Appetizer
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rajma (Large Kidney Beans) | 1 cup, cooked and mashed |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 2, cooked and mashed |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1/2 cup, crumbled |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, grated |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1/2 teaspoon, pounded |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | For cooking |
Preparation Time: 120 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy (Calories) | 215 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Potassium | 500mg |
Instructions
-
Prep the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Soak the rajma (kidney beans) overnight for 8 hours. After soaking, cook the rajma in a pressure cooker with a pinch of salt until it is very soft. Once cooked, drain the excess water and set the rajma aside. -
-
Cook the Potatoes
In a separate pressure cooker, cook the potatoes until they are tender and fully cooked. Once done, peel and mash the potatoes and set them aside. -
Mash the Rajma and Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and mashed rajma and potatoes. Using a potato masher, mash the mixture until it is well combined. This forms the base for your cutlet mixture. -
Mix in the Flavors
Add the crumbled paneer, gram flour (besan), red chili powder, fennel seed powder, garam masala powder, and salt to the mashed mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed. If you prefer, you can use a food processor to combine all the ingredients quickly. -
Shape the Patties
Once your mixture is ready, shape it into medium-sized patties. Make sure they are compact to prevent them from breaking while cooking. -
Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour with just enough water to create a smooth paste. Dip each patty into the flour paste, ensuring it is coated evenly, and then roll the patty in bread crumbs for a crisp, golden finish. For the best results, refrigerate the cutlets for about an hour (this step is optional, but it helps set the cutlets if you’re preparing them in advance for a party or gathering). -
Cook the Cutlets
Heat Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a shallow frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently drop the rajma malai cutlets into the pan. Fry the cutlets on both sides until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to turn them carefully so that they cook evenly. -
Drain Excess Oil
Once the cutlets are golden and crisp, remove them from the pan and drain the excess oil on a paper towel. -
Serve
Serve the delicious Rajma Malai Cutlets hot with a refreshing yogurt dip or tangy dhaniya pudina chutney for an unforgettable appetizer experience.
Tips for Perfect Rajma Malai Cutlets
- If you find the mixture too soft to shape into patties, add a little extra gram flour to bind it better.
- You can also bake the cutlets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for a healthier option. Bake them for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
- For added crunch, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
The Rajma Malai Cutlet is a versatile, flavorful, and healthy appetizer that will leave your guests asking for more. It is not only packed with protein but also bursting with the warm, comforting flavors of North Indian spices. Whether for a party, a family gathering, or as a snack for the kids, these cutlets are sure to impress with their crispy exterior and soft, spiced interior.
