These Fried Cabbage Rolls are an irresistible snack or appetizer, with a crunchy exterior and a flavorful vegetable filling inside. The cabbage leaves are lightly boiled to soften them, then stuffed with a savory mixture of mashed potatoes, vegetables, and spices. After being coated in a crispy gram flour batter, the rolls are deep-fried to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a delicious snack, or simply want a satisfying treat, these cabbage rolls will be a hit at your next gathering. Paired with your favorite dipping sauce, they offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Batter:
- 1 cup gram flour
- 2 tablespoons rice flour
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup water (add gradually to mix)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup boiled potato, mashed
- 2 tablespoons capsicum, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated carrot
- 2 tablespoons onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon green chili, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coriander leaves, chopped
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 cabbage, leaves separated
- ½ teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
Directions
1. Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of gram flour, 2 tablespoons rice flour, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, ½ teaspoon cumin powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon baking powder.
- Gradually add ½ cup of water, mixing continuously until you achieve a smooth batter. Set the batter aside for coating the rolls later.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In another bowl, mix 1 cup of mashed boiled potato, 2 tablespoons finely chopped capsicum, 2 tablespoons grated carrot, 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion, ½ teaspoon finely chopped green chili, ½ teaspoon coriander powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves.
- Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly combined. This will be the stuffing for the cabbage rolls.
3. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add ½ teaspoon salt to it.
- Carefully place the cabbage leaves into the boiling water and cook for 20-25 seconds until they soften. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Remove the leaves from the water and let them cool down on a clean surface or towel.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
- Once the cabbage leaves have cooled, take one leaf and place some of the vegetable filling in the center.
- Roll the leaf around the filling, folding the sides inward to fully enclose the filling. Repeat the process for the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
5. Coat and Fry:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Dip each cabbage roll into the prepared gram flour batter, ensuring that each roll is fully coated.
- Fry the rolls in the hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the rolls from the pan and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Serve:
- Serve the fried cabbage rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as mint chutney, tomato ketchup, or a yogurt dip.
Serving Suggestions
- Mint Chutney: Serve these cabbage rolls with a refreshing mint chutney to balance the spices.
- Tomato Ketchup: For a classic accompaniment, serve with tangy tomato ketchup.
- Yogurt Dip: A cool, creamy yogurt dip with a sprinkle of cumin or coriander powder adds a perfect contrast to the spicy rolls.
- Side Salad: Pair with a light side salad to make the meal more balanced and refreshing.
Cooking Tips
- Cabbage Leaves: If you find it difficult to separate the cabbage leaves without tearing them, you can cut the cabbage into quarters and carefully peel off the leaves. You can also lightly trim the thick vein of each leaf to make it easier to roll.
- Crispiness: Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying. If the oil is too cool, the rolls will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Test by dropping a small bit of batter into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready for frying.
- Storage: If you have leftover rolls, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or on a stovetop for crispy results.
Variations to Try
- Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, you can add a little shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar) into the filling for extra richness.
- Add Spices: For an extra kick, include a pinch of garam masala, cumin seeds, or even a dash of cinnamon in the filling for more depth of flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the filling with other vegetables like peas, corn, or even tofu for a different take on these delicious rolls.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: Cabbage is an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestive health and immunity.
- Potatoes: Potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates for energy, as well as potassium, which supports heart health.
- Vegetables: The inclusion of peppers, onions, carrots, and spinach adds essential vitamins and minerals, improving skin health and boosting overall well-being.
Conclusion
These Fried Cabbage Rolls with a flavorful vegetable filling are a fantastic snack or appetizer that will impress your guests. The crispy, golden exterior and savory filling create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether served with a tangy chutney, spicy ketchup, or creamy yogurt dip, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, they can be easily customized with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Try them out at your next dinner party or as a quick, satisfying treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use different vegetables for the filling? Yes, you can use other vegetables like peas, carrots, or even lentils for the filling. Feel free to experiment with what you have available.
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Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before frying. Just coat them in the batter just before frying.
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Can I bake these cabbage rolls instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake these rolls for a healthier version. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.
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What type of oil is best for frying these rolls? You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil for frying. These oils have a high smoke point and are ideal for deep frying.
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Can I freeze these rolls? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked rolls. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen when you’re ready to eat.