Paneer Tikki
Navratri, one of the most auspicious festivals in India, is celebrated with much devotion and joy. During this nine-night celebration, many devotees observe a fast, refraining from consuming grains, meat, and certain vegetables. Instead, they opt for specific fasting foods made with ingredients like potatoes, sabudana (sago), buckwheat flour, and paneer. Among these, Paneer Tikki stands out as a delicious and healthy snack that fits perfectly into the Navratri fasting diet. Here’s a simple recipe for preparing this mouth-watering snack to enjoy during the festive season.
Ingredients for Navratri Paneer Tikki
- Paneer (Cottage Cheese) – 200 grams, crumbled
- Boiled Potatoes – 2 medium-sized, mashed
- Vrat (Fasting) Flour – 2 tablespoons (you can use buckwheat flour or sago flour)
- Ginger – 1-inch piece, grated
- Green Chilies – 1-2, finely chopped
- Cumin Seeds – ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper Powder – ½ teaspoon
- Rock Salt (Sendha Namak) – to taste
- Coriander Powder – ½ teaspoon
- Chaat Masala – 1 teaspoon (optional for added flavor)
- Fresh Coriander Leaves – a handful, finely chopped
- Ghee or Oil – for shallow frying
Step-by-Step Recipe for Paneer Tikki
- Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by grating the paneer into fine crumbs. Boil the potatoes, peel them, and mash them thoroughly. Make sure there are no lumps. - Make the Tikki Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and crumbled paneer. Add the ginger, green chilies, cumin seeds, black pepper powder, coriander powder, and sendha namak (rock salt). Mix everything well to ensure an even distribution of spices. - Bind the Mixture
To bind the mixture together, add a tablespoon or two of vrat flour (buckwheat or sago flour). If you prefer a softer consistency, you can skip the flour and adjust with more mashed potatoes. Add chopped fresh coriander leaves for freshness and flavor. - Shape the Tikkis
Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball into a round, slightly thick patty or tikki shape. Repeat this process for the remaining mixture. You should be able to make 8-10 medium-sized tikkis. - Frying the Tikkis
Heat a non-stick pan or tawa and add a small amount of ghee or oil. Once hot, carefully place the tikkis on the pan. Cook them on medium heat, flipping occasionally to ensure they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. - Serving the Paneer Tikkis
Once the tikkis are crispy and golden, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve the Paneer Tikkis hot with a side of mint chutney or tamarind dip for a burst of flavor.
Why Paneer Tikki is Perfect for Navratri Fasting
Paneer is an excellent source of protein and calcium, making it a great choice for a healthy fasting snack. Combined with potatoes, which provide energy, Paneer Tikki becomes a wholesome, filling option. The use of fasting-approved ingredients like rock salt and buckwheat flour ensures the recipe adheres to the Navratri dietary guidelines. Plus, the crisp, golden texture of the tikkis combined with the rich flavors of cumin and coriander makes them an irresistible treat for the festive season.
Tips for Making the Best Paneer Tikkis
- If you want to make your tikkis more crispy, you can dip them in a mixture of sago flour or arrowroot powder before frying.
- For a healthier version, opt for grilling the tikkis instead of frying.
- You can also add some finely chopped vegetables like carrots or peas to enhance the nutritional value.
Paneer Tikki is a versatile and delectable snack that fits perfectly within the framework of Navratri fasting. It’s easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients that provide energy to keep you going during the festivities. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply enjoying the festive spirit, this dish will certainly be a hit. So, try making this simple yet flavorful Paneer Tikki for a wholesome and enjoyable Navratri experience!
