These golden, crunchy cabbage rolls are filled with a flavorful vegetable mixture and coated in a seasoned gram flour batter. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 cup boiled potato, mashed
- 2 tbsp capsicum, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp grated carrot
- 2 tbsp onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp green chili, finely chopped
- ½ tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 cabbage, leaves separated
- ½ tsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Batter:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 2 tbsp rice flour
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup water (or as needed)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a bowl, combine gram flour, rice flour, chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add water while mixing until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In another bowl, mix mashed boiled potato, capsicum, carrot, onion, green chili, coriander powder, salt, and chopped coriander leaves.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add ½ tsp salt.
- Place the cabbage leaves in the boiling water and boil for 20–25 seconds until softened.
- Remove the leaves and allow them to cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
- Take a softened cabbage leaf and place a small amount of the vegetable filling in the center.
- Roll the leaf tightly around the filling to form a neat roll.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
Step 5: Coat and Fry
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Dip each cabbage roll into the prepared batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Fry the coated rolls in the hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the crispy cabbage rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as mint chutney, ketchup, or a tangy tamarind sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh salad or yogurt dip for a light appetizer.
- Serve as a snack with a side of masala tea or coffee.
- Add to a party platter alongside other fried appetizers.
Cooking Tips
- Use a slotted spoon to carefully flip the rolls while frying to ensure even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, fry the rolls in small batches.
- Adjust the spice levels in the filling and batter according to your taste.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: Low in calories and rich in fiber and vitamin C.
- Potato: Provides energy and is a good source of potassium.
- Gram Flour: High in protein and naturally gluten-free.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free (ensure rice flour is certified gluten-free)
Nutritional Facts (Per Roll – Approx. 8 rolls):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage
- Best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients create a delicious and crispy snack.
- A versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and spices.
- Perfect for parties, tea-time snacks, or family gatherings.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
Conclusion
Crispy on the outside and packed with flavorful vegetable filling, these cabbage rolls are a delightful treat for any occasion. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a snack that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables for the filling? Yes, you can add peas, corn, or even shredded paneer.
- Can I bake instead of frying? Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, or use an air fryer.
- Can I make this vegan? Yes, it’s already vegan as no animal products are used.
- What type of cabbage works best? Green cabbage or Napa cabbage is ideal as the leaves are large and sturdy.
- How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling while frying? Ensure the rolls are tightly wrapped and handled gently while dipping in batter and frying.
- Can I freeze the rolls? Yes, freeze the assembled rolls before frying. Thaw and coat in batter before cooking.
- What oil is best for frying? Use a neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower oil.
- Can I make these spicier? Add extra chili powder or chopped green chilies to the batter and filling.
- How do I keep them crispy for longer? Serve immediately or reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them. Fry just before serving.
Enjoy these crunchy, flavorful cabbage rolls for any meal or occasion!