Vegetable Tikki

 Ingredients: 

• 1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup boiled mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, beans, corn, etc.)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder or freshly grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs or semolina (rawa) (for binding)
• 1-2 tablespoons cornflour or rice flour (optional, for binding)
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for flavor)
• Oil (for shallow frying)

Instructions: 

1. Prepare the Vegetables: ○ Boil the mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, beans, etc.) in a steamer or pot until soft but not mushy. Drain well and set aside to cool.
2. Mash the Potatoes: ○ Boil the potatoes until soft, peel them, and mash them without any lumps. Let them cool slightly.
3. Mix Everything Together: ○ In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, boiled vegetables, finely chopped onions, green chilies, ginger, and fresh coriander leaves.
4. Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix everything well.
5. Bind the Mixture: Add the bread crumbs or semolina (rava) to help bind the mixture. You can also add cornflour or rice flour if the mixture is too soft or sticky.
6. Once everything is well combined, check the consistency. The mixture should be firm enough to form patties. If needed, add more breadcrumbs or flour.
7. Shape the Tikkis: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into round or oval tikkis (patties). Press gently to flatten them.
8. Shallow Fry the Tikkis: Heat a non-stick pan or skillet and add a little oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the tikkis in the pan.
9. Cook the tikkis on medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. You can also lightly press them with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
10. Drain Excess Oil: Once crispy and golden, remove the tikkis from the pan and place them on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
11. Serve: Serve the mixed vegetable tikkis hot with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or yogurt.

Tips: 

To make it healthier: You can bake the tikkis in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. 

For extra flavor: Add a pinch of chaat masala or black salt while shaping the tikkis. 

For a gluten-free version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rice flour for binding. 

Serving Suggestion: 

Mixed vegetable tikkis make a great snack or appetizer for parties. You can also serve them as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. 

Enjoy your crispy, healthy tikki!