Ingredients
Method
- In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and add the chopped vegetables. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they soften slightly but still retain some texture. Remove from heat and transfer the vegetables to a bowl.
- Add the boiled potato, along with salt, cumin powder, chaat masala, red chilli powder, and coriander powder. Mix well until the mixture comes together and holds its shape.
- Shape the mixture into small stick-like cylinders and place them in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to firm up. This step helps the sticks hold together better while frying.
- Meanwhile, prepare a smooth slurry using refined flour, corn flour, and water. Dip each chilled stick into the slurry, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the sticks in batches until golden brown and crisp on all sides. Remove and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Tips for Perfect Veggie St
Chill for better structure: Refrigerating the shaped sticks is key-it firms them up and prevents breaking while frying.Adjust consistency if needed: If the mixture feels too soft, add a little breadcrumb to help it hold shape.Get the slurry right: It should be smooth and slightly thick so it coats the sticks evenly without dripping too much.Fry at medium heat: Too hot, and the outside browns too quickly; too low, and the sticks absorb excess oil.Avoid overcrowding the pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even crispiness.Serve immediately: These taste best when hot and crispy, right after frying.Hung Curd Dip
- Place the curd in a muslin cloth and gently squeeze out the excess water. Gather the cloth and let it hang for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the remaining liquid to drain away.
- Once thickened, transfer the hung curd to a bowl and whisk lightly until smooth and creamy.
- Add salt, roasted cumin powder, garlic, and fresh mint, and mix well to combine. The result is a rich, flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with the crispy veggie sticks.
Notes
- Chill before frying: Don’t skip the refrigeration step. It helps the sticks firm up and prevents them from breaking while frying.
- Texture control: If the mixture feels too soft to shape, add a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Oil temperature matters: Fry on medium heat. If the oil is too hot, the outside will brown quickly while the inside stays undercooked; too low, and the sticks will absorb excess oil.
- For a healthier version: You can bake or air fry the sticks at 200°C for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.
- Make ahead option: Shape the sticks and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Customize the veggies: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, just make sure they’re finely chopped so the mixture holds together well.
- Hung curd tip: Don’t overstrain the curd. 15-20 minutes is enough to get a thick, creamy consistency without making it too dry.
