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Veggie Sticks with Hung Curd Dip

If you’re someone who craves crispy snacks but still wants to keep things on the healthier side, this recipe is for you. These veggie sticks are packed with the goodness of your favorite vegetables and the best part? You can easily sneak them in for picky eaters and still have them asking for more. Whether it’s for a party spread or a simple evening snack, this one always fits right in.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 2 people

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Veggie Sticks
  • Mixed vegetables carrot, capsicum, beans, etc. - finely chopped
  • boiled potato
  • Salt-to taste
  • ½ tsp cumin powder
  • ½ tsp chaat masala
  • ½ tsp red chilli powder
  • ½ tsp coriander powder
  • bread crumbs
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour maida
  • 1 tbsp corn flour
  • Water for batter
  • Oil for deep frying
Ingredients for Hung Curd
  • 1 cup curd dahi
  • Muslin cloth for straining
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼ tsp roasted cumin powder
  • 1-2 cloves garlic finely chopped or grated
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint finely chopped

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Meanwhile, prepare a smooth slurry using refined flour, corn flour, and water. Dip each chilled stick into the slurry, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
  5. 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.
  6. 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
  1. 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.
  2. Once thickened, transfer the hung curd to a bowl and whisk lightly until smooth and creamy.
  3. 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.