Indian spinach and potato fritters with mint and coriander sauce

Indian spinach and potato fritters with mint and coriander sauce

If you want to bring a touch of exotic flavor to your kitchen, the Indian spinach and potato fritters, known as Aloo Tikki, are the perfect choice. These delicious fritters are not only easy to prepare but also healthy, being packed with nutrients and fresh flavors. And with the mint and coriander sauce, every bite becomes an explosion of tastes!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed for fritters:

- 2 large potatoes (approximately 500 g)
- 250 g of fresh blanched spinach
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (plus oil for frying)

Ingredients needed for the sauce:

- 10 sprigs of fresh mint
- 30 sprigs of fresh coriander
- 1 clove of garlic
- ½ teaspoon of sugar
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 100 ml of water

Steps to prepare the fritters:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and grating them. This technique will help achieve a finer texture for the fritters. Once done, place the grated potatoes in a large bowl.

2. Blanching the spinach: Wash the spinach well and blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and chop it into large pieces. The spinach will add a note of freshness and vibrant color to your fritters.

3. Preparing the mixture: Add the blanched spinach to the bowl with the potatoes, along with the finely chopped garlic, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

4. Forming the fritters: Use your hands to form small fritters, about 5 cm in diameter. Make sure they are well compressed so they don’t fall apart during frying.

5. Frying the fritters: In a large pan, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, add the fritters, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. After frying, remove them onto kitchen towels to absorb excess oil.

Preparing the mint and coriander sauce:

1. Mashing the ingredients: In a mortar or blender, add the mint leaves, coriander, garlic clove, sugar, and salt. Grind the ingredients well until you obtain a uniform paste.

2. Adding liquids: Place the mixture in a bowl, add the water and lemon juice. Mix well until the sauce becomes homogeneous. If you desire a thinner texture, you can add more water.

3. Serving: It is recommended to prepare the sauce before the fritters to allow the flavors to combine. Serve the fritters hot alongside the mint and coriander sauce, a perfect combination!

Useful tips:

- Fresh ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients for the best results. Mint and coriander from your garden will make a significant difference in flavor.
- Adjusting spices: You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to personal preferences. If you prefer a less spicy flavor, you can omit the cayenne pepper or replace it with sweet paprika.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables to the fritter mixture, such as grated carrots or zucchini, to diversify the taste and texture.
- Delicious combinations: These fritters can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or basmati rice. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of yogurt or aromatic chai.

Nutritional benefits:

Aloo Tikki fritters are not only tasty but also nutritious. Potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates, while spinach is an excellent source of iron, vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Mint and coriander add not only flavor but also antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

Frequently asked questions:

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can add a pleasant sweetness and a different texture to your fritters.

How can I make the fritters without frying?
For a healthier option, you can bake the fritters in the oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Can the fritters be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the fritters raw or fried. Make sure to wrap them well in cling film or store them in an airtight container.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! With each step, you will bring a piece of Indian culinary culture into your home. Enjoy your meal!