Delicious Punjabi Aloo Tikki Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Spices and Potatoes
Aloo Tikki is a popular North Indian and Pakistani street food snack. It consists of mashed potatoes mixed with spices and other ingredients, shaped into patties, and then fried until golden and crispy on the outside. The name "Aloo Tikki" translates to "potato cutlet" in English.
The key ingredient in Aloo Tikki is boiled potatoes, which are mashed and combined with various spices such as cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Additional ingredients like green peas, onions, green chilies, ginger, and fresh herbs like coriander leaves are often added to enhance the flavor and texture.
Aloo Tikki is typically shallow fried in oil, although it can also be baked or air-fried for a healthier option. The frying process gives the tikki a crispy outer crust while the inside remains soft and flavorful.
What is Aloo ki Tikki
Aloo ki Tikki, also known as Aloo Tikki, is a popular Indian snack or appetizer made from mashed potatoes and a blend of spices. "Aloo" means potatoes in Hindi, and "Tikki" refers to a patty or cutlet. Aloo ki Tikki is essentially a potato patty that is shallow fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
To make Aloo ki Tikki, boiled potatoes are mashed and mixed with various ingredients such as onions, green chilies, ginger, garlic, and a combination of spices like cumin, coriander, red chili powder, and garam masala. The mixture is then shaped into round or flattened patties and shallow fried until golden brown.
Aloo ki Tikki is commonly served as a street food snack in India and is enjoyed with various chutneys like mint chutney and tamarind chutney. It is also used as a key ingredient in popular Indian street food dishes like Aloo Tikki Chaat, where the tikkis are topped with yogurt, chutneys, sev, and other flavorful ingredients.
Aloo ki Tikki is loved for its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a snack, used as a burger patty, or incorporated into chaats and other Indian street food preparations.
How to make Aloo Tikki Recipe
Cook Potatoes and Green Peas
4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
1/2 cup green peas, boiled and mashed
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 green chilies, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon ginger paste
1 teaspoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Oil for shallow frying
Now, let's proceed with the recipe:
Make Green Peas Stuffing
1 cup green peas, boiled and lightly mashed
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green chili, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon amchur (dried mango powder)
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon oil
Now, let's proceed with the recipe:
Heat oil in a pan or skillet over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter for a few seconds.
Add the finely chopped onions and green chili to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and lightly golden.
Add the ginger paste to the pan and sauté for another minute until the raw smell of ginger disappears.
Now, add the boiled and lightly mashed green peas to the pan. Mix well with the onion and spice mixture.
Add garam masala, amchur, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Cook the green peas stuffing for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and well-cooked.
Remove the pan from heat and let the green peas stuffing cool down.
Make Potato Tikki Mixture
4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 green chilies, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon ginger paste
1 teaspoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Now, let's proceed with the recipe:
In a mixing bowl, add the boiled and mashed potatoes.
Add the finely chopped onion, green chilies, coriander leaves, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to the bowl.
Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring that the spices and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes.
Use your hands to knead the mixture gently, which will help bind everything together.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or spices according to your preference.
Once the mixture is well combined, cover it and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
After the resting period, the potato tikki mixture is ready to be used for shaping and frying the tikkis as per the Aloo Tikki recipe
Assemble and Make Potato Patties
Potato tikki mixture (prepared using the previous recipe)
Green peas stuffing (optional, if desired)
Oil for shallow frying
Now, let's proceed with assembling and making the potato patties:
Take a portion of the potato tikki mixture in your hand. The size can vary based on your preference, but a medium-sized ball is a good starting point.
Flatten the potato mixture in your palm to form a round or flattened patty. Ensure it is thick enough to hold its shape.
If you're using the green peas stuffing, place a small amount of the stuffing in the center of the potato patty.
Gently seal the edges of the potato patty to enclose the stuffing, ensuring it is completely covered.
Shape the patty by pressing it lightly to make it compact and smooth. Repeat the process to make more patties with the remaining potato tikki mixture.
Fry Aloo Tikki
Heat oil in a non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat. The amount of oil should be enough to cover the bottom of the pan in a shallow layer.
Once the oil is hot, gently place the prepared Aloo Tikki in the pan, leaving some space between them for easy flipping and even cooking.
Allow the Aloo Tikki to cook undisturbed for a few minutes on one side until it turns golden brown and crispy. This usually takes around 3-4 minutes.
Carefully flip the Aloo Tikki using a spatula to cook the other side. Be gentle to prevent them from breaking.
Continue frying the Aloo Tikki on the other side for another 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes golden brown and crispy.
Once both sides are cooked to your desired crispiness, remove the Aloo Tikki from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Repeat the frying process with the remaining Aloo Tikki, adding more oil to the pan if needed, and adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain a medium heat level.
Once all the Aloo Tikki are fried, they are ready to be served hot.
Note: While frying, be cautious to maintain a medium heat level to ensure that the Aloo Tikki cooks evenly and doesn't burn. Adjust the heat as needed throughout the frying process.
Serve the freshly fried Aloo Tikki with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup, and enjoy their crispy exterior and flavorful interior!
Serving Suggestions
Aloo Tikki can be served in various ways, depending on personal preference and regional variations. Here are some popular serving suggestions:
Aloo Tikki Chaat: Aloo Tikki is commonly used as a key ingredient in chaat, a popular Indian street food. To make Aloo Tikki Chaat, place the fried Aloo Tikki on a plate, and top it with a combination of sweet and tangy chutneys such as tamarind chutney and mint chutney. Sprinkle some finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and coriander leaves on top. You can also add yogurt, sev (crispy chickpea flour noodles), and a sprinkle of chaat masala for extra flavor.
Aloo Tikki Burger: Use Aloo Tikki as a patty in a burger. Place a fried Aloo Tikki on a bun, and layer it with sliced tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and any other desired toppings. Add condiments like ketchup or mayonnaise, and serve with a side of fries.
Aloo Tikki Wrap: Spread some mint chutney or a tangy sauce on a flatbread or tortilla. Place a fried Aloo Tikki in the center and add sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce. Roll it up tightly and cut it into smaller wraps for a quick and tasty meal.
Aloo Tikki with Chole: Serve Aloo Tikki with spicy chickpea curry, known as chole. Place the fried Aloo Tikki on a plate and pour hot and flavorful chole over it. Garnish with chopped onions, fresh coriander leaves, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It's a popular combination in North Indian cuisine.
Aloo Tikki Slider: Create mini Aloo Tikki sliders by using smaller buns or rolls. Place a fried Aloo Tikki on each bun and add toppings like sliced cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of your favorite sauce. Serve them as appetizers or party snacks.
Aloo Tikki Salad: Prepare a refreshing salad by placing a fried Aloo Tikki on a bed of mixed greens or lettuce. Add diced cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and any other desired veggies. Drizzle with a tangy dressing of your choice, such as lemon vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing.
Remember to adjust the serving suggestions based on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Enjoy the versatile and delicious Aloo Tikki in whichever way you prefer!
What more with Aloo Tikki
Aloo Tikki Sandwich: Use Aloo Tikki as a filling in a sandwich. Place a fried Aloo Tikki between two slices of bread along with lettuce, tomato slices, cucumber, and any other desired fillings. Add a spread of chutney or sauce for added flavor.
Aloo Tikki with Yogurt: Serve Aloo Tikki with a side of creamy yogurt. You can either drizzle the yogurt over the Aloo Tikki or serve it as a dipping sauce. The cool and tangy yogurt complements the spiciness of the tikki.
Aloo Tikki with Chutneys: Pair Aloo Tikki with different chutneys for a burst of flavors. Besides mint chutney and tamarind chutney, you can also serve it with coriander chutney, garlic chutney, or a spicy tomato chutney.
Aloo Tikki with Pickles: Add a tangy twist by serving Aloo Tikki with a side of pickles. Options like mango pickle, lime pickle, or mixed vegetable pickle can add an extra kick of flavors to your Aloo Tikki.
Aloo Tikki with Raita: Enjoy Aloo Tikki with a refreshing raita. Prepare a yogurt-based raita by mixing grated cucumber, chopped mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, and a pinch of salt. Serve the Aloo Tikki with the cool and refreshing raita.
Aloo Tikki as a Side Dish: Serve Aloo Tikki as a side dish with your main course. It pairs well with dishes like dal (lentil curry), vegetable curries, or even biryani. The Aloo Tikki adds texture and flavor to your meal.
Aloo Tikki as a Snack: Aloo Tikki is a delicious snack on its own. Serve it as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. You can make bite-sized mini tikkis for easy snacking or serve them with toothpicks for a fun presentation.
Aloo Tikki as a Breakfast Dish: Enjoy Aloo Tikki as a hearty breakfast. Serve it with toasted bread, scrambled eggs, or poached eggs for a filling and flavorful morning meal.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations and accompaniments to find your favorite way to enjoy Aloo Tikki. The versatility of this dish allows you to get creative and tailor it to your taste preferences.
Expert Tips for Best Aloo ki Tikki
Boil the Potatoes Properly: Ensure that the potatoes are boiled well and cooked through. Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and affect the texture of the tikki, while undercooked potatoes will be hard to mash. Boil the potatoes until they are easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
Use the Right Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for making Aloo Tikki. These varieties have a high starch content, which helps in achieving a fluffy and soft texture.
Mash Potatoes Smoothly: Mash the boiled potatoes thoroughly to ensure a smooth and lump-free texture. You can use a potato masher or fork to mash them, ensuring no lumps remain. This step is crucial for the tikki to hold its shape.
Adjust the Consistency: While mixing the ingredients, ensure that the potato mixture is not too dry or too moist. It should be easy to shape into patties without crumbling. If the mixture feels dry, you can add a little water or boiled potato water to moisten it. If it feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or cornflour to bind it.
Season Well: Aloo Tikki gets its flavor from a blend of spices. Make sure to season the potato mixture generously with spices like cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
Fry on Medium Heat: To achieve a crispy and evenly cooked Aloo Tikki, fry them on medium heat. This allows the tikki to cook through without burning the exterior. High heat may result in a burnt outer layer and undercooked insides.
Shallow Fry with Enough Oil: Use enough oil in the pan to achieve a shallow frying method. The tikki should be partially submerged in the oil for even browning and crispiness. However, avoid deep-frying as it may make the tikki too oily.
Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the Aloo Tikki to the pan. Test it by adding a small portion of the potato mixture; it should sizzle and rise to the surface. Maintain the oil temperature throughout the frying process to prevent the tikki from getting greasy.
Drain Excess Oil: Once the Aloo Tikki is fried and golden brown, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps in keeping the tikki crisp and prevents them from becoming greasy.
Serve Hot: Aloo Tikki is best enjoyed when served hot. Serve them immediately after frying to enjoy the crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior.
By following these expert tips, you'll be able to make delicious and perfectly textured Aloo Tikki every time. Enjoy your homemade Aloo Tikki!
Faq
Q1: What is Aloo Tikki?
A1: Aloo Tikki is a popular Indian street food snack made from mashed potatoes mixed with spices, herbs, and sometimes other ingredients. The mixture is shaped into patties and shallow fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Q2: Can I make Aloo Tikki in advance?
A2: Yes, you can make the Aloo Tikki mixture in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours. When you're ready to serve, shape the mixture into patties and fry them fresh for the best texture and taste.
Q3: Can I bake Aloo Tikki instead of frying?
A3: While traditionally Aloo Tikki is shallow fried, you can also bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the tikkis with oil, place them on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Q4: How long can I store leftover Aloo Tikki?
A4: Leftover Aloo Tikki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with a little oil or in a preheated oven until heated through before serving.
Q5: Can I freeze Aloo Tikki?
A5: Yes, Aloo Tikki can be frozen for future use. After shaping the tikkis, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 2-3 months. When needed, thaw them in the refrigerator and fry or bake as per your preference.
Q6: What are the variations of Aloo Tikki?
A6: Aloo Tikki can be customized with various additions and variations. Some common variations include adding boiled green peas, grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or chopped vegetables like carrots and capsicum to the potato mixture. These additions enhance the flavor and texture of the tikkis.
Q7: Can I make Aloo Tikki gluten-free?
A7: Yes, you can make Aloo Tikki gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Ensure that all the ingredients you use, including spices and condiments, are gluten-free.
Q8: What are some popular accompaniments for Aloo Tikki?
A8: Aloo Tikki is often served with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup. It can also be enjoyed with yogurt, pickles, or as part of chaat dishes like Aloo Tikki Chaat.
Q9: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A9: Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes to make Sweet Potato Tikki. The cooking process remains the same, and the tikkis will have a slightly different flavor and texture.
Q10: Is Aloo Tikki vegan?
A10: Aloo Tikki can be made vegan by ensuring that all the ingredients used, including spices, are plant-based and there are no dairy or animal-derived products added to the mixture or during frying.
I hope these FAQs help address some common questions about Aloo Tikki. Enjoy preparing and savoring this delicious Indian snack!
Recipe Card
Nutrition
Calories: 180-200 calories
Fat: 7-9 grams
Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
Protein: 3-4 grams
Fiber: 3-4 grams
Sodium: 300-400 milligrams
Sugar: 2-3 grams
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and the cooking method. Additionally, the nutritional content may change if you make any modifications to the recipe or use different serving sizes. It's always a good idea to calculate the nutrition information based on the exact ingredients and quantities you use.
