Description: Indulge in the rich flavors of North India with this mouthwatering Vegetable Tikki Masala recipe. Crisp and flavorful vegetable patties, known as tikis, are simmered in a sumptuous tomato-based curry sauce, perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, and cauliflower)
1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the curry sauce:
+ 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 2 medium tomatoes, diced
+ 1 tablespoon tomato puree
+ 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
+ 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
+ Salt, to taste
+ 1 cup water
+ Heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to medium-high heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed vegetables, besan, breadcrumbs, cilantro, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Tikki Formation:
Using your hands or a spoon, shape the vegetable mixture into small patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick. You should end up with around 8-10 tikkis.
3. Fry the tikkis until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. To make the curry sauce, heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
6. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato puree, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add the water to the curry sauce and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Assembly:
Add the fried tikkis to the curry sauce and let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half to enrich the sauce.
9. Serve the Vegetable Tikki Masala hot over basmati rice or with naan bread, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a dollop of raita (yogurt and cucumber).
Pro Cooking Tips:
To achieve the perfect texture for the tikkis, do not overcrowd the frying pan. Fry them in batches if necessary.
For an extra-rich curry sauce, use homemade tomato puree or add a splash of heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Vegetable Tikki Masala with steamed basmati rice and a side of raita for a comforting meal.
Pair it with garlic naan bread and a refreshing salad for a satisfying dinner.
Offer it as a snack or appetizer at your next gathering, accompanied by papads and chutneys.
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