Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup whole moong beans (soaked overnight)
- 4 green chillies (rough chopped)
- 2 inch ginger (rough chopped)
- ½ cup cilantro (rough chopped)
- 2 cups baby spinach (rough chopped)
- 6 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
- 6 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- 24 cashews (raw, unsalted)
- Oil for frying (approximately 3-4 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Drain and prep moong beans: Using a strainer, drain the soaked whole moong beans thoroughly to remove all water. Discard any beans that have not soaked properly to ensure the mixture consistency is uniform.
- Grind moong with flavorings: Add the green chillies, ginger, and soaked moong beans to a food processor. Pulse for 30 to 45 seconds until the mixture becomes grainy but not a smooth paste.
- Add greens and binding agents: To the food processor, add baby spinach, cilantro, kosher salt, garam masala, gram flour, and breadcrumbs. Pulse a few times just until everything is combined but still retains some texture, ensuring the mixture is not overly smooth.
- Shape the tikkis: Divide the mixture into 24 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty about 2 inches wide. Make a small dent in the center of each tikki and gently press one raw cashew into it for garnish.
- Pan-fry the tikkis: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat and add oil to warm. Place the tikkis in a single layer, cooking uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottoms turn lightly golden. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes, cooking evenly until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Soak the moong beans overnight to ensure they soften properly for blending.
- Be careful not to over-process the mixture; keep some texture for better mouthfeel.
- If the mixture feels too wet to shape, add a little more gram flour or breadcrumbs to bind better.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron for even heat distribution during frying.
- Serve the tikkis hot with green chutney or tamarind sauce for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian