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Desi vegetarian kebabs often successfully capture the rich and diverse flavours of Indian cuisine. Traditionally lesser-known than their meaty counterparts, vegetarian kebabs offer a creative and flavourful alternative, showcasing the versatility of vegetables, paneer, and legumes. These kebabs are made using a variety of ingredients such as potatoes, paneer, mushrooms, spinach, and lentils, mixed with spices.
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The preparation of these kebabs involves marinating or mixing the ingredients with aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chilli powder. The mixture is then shaped into patties, skewers, or balls, and cooked by grilling, baking, or shallow-frying. This cooking process imparts a smoky flavour, adding depth and complexity to the kebabs.
Also Read: India’s kebab connection
Popular vegetarian kebabs include Paneer Tikka, where paneer cubes are marinated and grilled, and Hara Bhara Kebab, made with spinach and peas. Dahi Ke Kebab offers a creamy texture with yoghurt and spices, while the Veg Seekh Kebab mimics traditional seekh kebabs with a blend of vegetables.
These kebabs are not only delicious but also healthier, considering the vegetables are grilled, making them a great option for those seeking vegetarian or vegan alternatives. They are typically served with chutneys and salads, making them perfect for appetisers, snacks, or main courses at any gathering.
Paneer Tikka Kebab
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Paneer Tikka Kebab is a popular Indian appetiser featuring chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a blend of yoghurt and spices. The marinade typically includes ingredients like ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chilli powder, and garam masala. The paneer is put on a skewer along with vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, then grilled or baked until charred and flavourful. This kebab has a smoky flavour from the grilling process, complemented by the creamy and soft texture of paneer. It is tangy and spicy.
Hara Bhara Kebab
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Popular on every dinner party list, Hara Bhara Kebab is a healthy green coloured kebab which gets its colour and texture from spinach, peas, and potatoes. The mixture is spiced with green chillies, ginger, cumin, and coriander before being shaped into patties and shallow-fried until they are crispy on the outside. These kebabs are mildly spiced, allowing the fresh flavours of spinach and peas to shine through. The exterior is crispy, while the interior remains soft.
Veg Seekh Kebab
Veg Seekh Kebab is a vegetarian version of the traditional seekh kebab, made using a mix of vegetables such as carrots, beans, and bell peppers, combined with mashed potatoes and chickpea flour. The mixture is seasoned with aromatic spices such as garam masala, cumin, and coriander powder before being shaped around skewers and grilled. These kebabs have a robust and smoky flavour. The chickpea flour helps bind the mixture and adds a slight nuttiness.
Mushroom Kebab
Mushroom Kebab is a delectable kebab made with finely chopped mushrooms mixed with onions, herbs, and spices. The mixture is often combined with bread crumbs or chickpea flour for binding, then shaped into patties and grilled or pan-fried. The umami-rich flavor of mushrooms is complemented by the aromatic spices used in the mixture. These kebabs have a juicy and tender interior, with a crispy exterior, offering a satisfying bite.
Aloo Tikki Kebab
Aloo Tikki Kebab is a popular Indian street food made with boiled and mashed potatoes, mixed with spices like cumin, coriander, and red chilli powder. The mixture is shaped into patties and shallow-fried until golden brown and crispy. These kebabs are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a flavorful blend of spices that enhances the natural taste of potatoes. The addition of green chilies and coriander leaves provides a hint of freshness and heat.
Dahi Ke Kebab
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Dahi Ke Kebab is a unique and creamy kebab made with hung curd, paneer, and a mix of spices. The mixture is thickened with gram flour or bread crumbs, shaped into patties, and shallow-fried to perfection. These kebabs have a rich and creamy texture, with a subtle tanginess from the yoghurt.
Corn And Cheese Kebab
Corn and Cheese Kebab is a delightful fusion kebab made with sweet corn kernels, grated cheese, and mashed potatoes. The mixture is seasoned with spices such as chilli powder, cumin, and coriander, then shaped into patties and shallow-fried until golden. The sweetness of corn complements the richness of cheese.
