If you’re searching for a tasty and nutritious snack that’s easy to make, look no further than these crispy vegetable nuggets. Combining the goodness of vegetables with a delightful crunch, these nuggets are perfect for kids and adults alike. They’re great for an evening snack, a party appetizer, or even a lunchbox treat. Best of all, they are simple to prepare and pack a flavorful punch that everyone will love.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized boiled potatoes, mashed
- 2 tbsp green peas, boiled
- 2 tbsp capsicum, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrot, grated
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chaat masala
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (for the mixture)
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1/4 cup water (to make the slurry)
- Extra bread crumbs for coating
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetable Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, green peas, capsicum, and carrot. Mix well until the vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Add chili flakes, oregano, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and chaat masala to the vegetable mixture. Stir until all the spices are well incorporated.
- Mix in 1/4 cup of bread crumbs to help bind the mixture.
Form the Nuggets
- Take a small portion of the vegetable mixture and shape it into nuggets. You can make them round or slightly flattened based on your preference.
Prepare the Slurry and Coating
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water until you get a smooth slurry.
- Place some extra bread crumbs in a separate dish for coating.
Coat the Nuggets
- Dip each nugget first into the slurry, ensuring it is completely wet.
- Immediately roll the wet nugget in the bread crumbs, coating it evenly. Set aside on a plate.
Fry the Nuggets
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded nuggets to the oil. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy vegetable nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, a creamy herb dip, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They also pair well with a fresh green salad or a tangy coleslaw for a more substantial meal.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the nuggets to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- For a healthier version, you can bake the nuggets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Nutritional Benefits
These vegetable nuggets are packed with essential nutrients:
- Potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C.
- Green peas are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and protein.
- Carrots offer beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, and antioxidants.
- Capsicum (bell peppers) are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: These nuggets are completely vegetarian.
- Vegan: To make them vegan, substitute regular bread crumbs with vegan bread crumbs and use water instead of any milk in the slurry.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These crispy vegetable nuggets are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. They offer a great way to include more vegetables in your diet, especially for picky eaters. Their delightful crunch and savory flavor make them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the ease of preparation makes them a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or spontaneous get-togethers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crispy vegetable nuggets are a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make snack that everyone will enjoy. With their crunchy exterior and flavorful, veggie-packed interior, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthier take on a classic snack!