This Aloo Tikki recipe is your gateway to the vibrant world of Indian street food. Based in readily available ingredients like russet potatoes, white onion, cilantro, and a few rarer things like spices, you can create these crispy and satisfying fritters. The recipe’s simplicity makes it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, straightforward steps guide you through the process, and common ingredients ensure accessibility. The combination of coriander powder, turmeric, and garam masala creates a warm and exotic flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting.
What is Aloo Tikki?
Aloo tikki is a popular Indian snack or appetizer that translates to “potato patty.” The beauty of aloo tikki lies in its simplicity. First, boiled and grated potatoes are seasoned with a vibrant blend of spices. Then, chefs will often incorporate chopped vegetables for added texture and sometimes even chickpeas or lentils for a protein boost. This humble combination is then transformed into crispy golden fritters, ready to be enjoyed in various ways. Try them tucked inside burgers or on their own. The next time you crave a delicious and satisfying vegetarian treat, bring the magic of aloo tikki into your kitchen.
Aloo Tikki Recipe
Description
This Indian street food is a great appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 3–4 large russet potatoes, boiled, peeled and grated (approximately 4– 41/2 cups)
- ½ cup white onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves, chopped
- 2 green chilies, finely minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, crushed to a paste
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ½ lime, juiced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ⅓ cup finely ground breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes with the skins on. Be careful not to overcook them. As soon as a knife can be inserted through the middle without any resistance and the skin begins to peel off, the potatoes are done.
- Drain, and peel the potatoes. Set aside until they are cool enough to handle easily. Then use the larger holes on a grater to grate them.
- Next, add all the other ingredients to the grated potatoes and mix to evenly combine everything. Then, form small cutlets by pressing the potato mixture together with your fingers, making sure that the cutlets are tightly packed so that they don’t fall apart when you are frying them.
- Pour enough oil to generously coat the bottom of a pan and once the oil is hot enough, place in a single layer of cutlets. Pan fry on medium, occasionally turning them until all sides are browned evenly. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all the cutlets are made.
How to Serve Aloo Tikki
Aloo Tikki’s versatility extends beyond the initial fritter. You can also serve it in various ways to suit your preferences. Pair them with vibrant chutneys like cilantro-mint or tamarind for an explosion of flavor and contrasting textures. For those who prefer a bit of a kick, a spicy tomato sauce adds just enough heat for another variation. Or, transform this recipe into crowd-pleasing appetizers by drizzling them with a dollop of cooling dahi (plain yogurt) for a touch of creaminess. The possibilities only end with your creativity.
Wrap Up
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create crispy and satisfying Aloo Tikki that are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a vegetarian main course. Feel free to customize the spice level and add your favorite chutneys or sauces to make the recipe all your own.
Recipe by Veda Sankaran
Story by Kylie Thomas
Photography by Laura Petrilla
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