Vegetarian Green Cutlets

Who doesn't like a crispy, savory cutlet for a snack or appetizer that can double as a vegetarian patty for a sandwich?

I crave these in cooler weather, to go with a hot cup of tea, with my family on a porch, specially on a rainy day! Its a great way to sneak in some greens to fussy eaters too.








Ingredients

Spinach                                         One bunch
Green peas frozen defrosted         One cup
Boiled potato                                Two medium sized mashed
Paneer (Indian Cheese)                 One small pack grated
Cilantro leaves                               Half a bunch
Mint Leaves                                  Half a bunch (about 20 leaves)
Serrano pepper                              One medium (optional if you want to cut down the spice)
Ginger root chopped small            1/2 tsp

Chaat Masala                                 1/4 tsp   ( available at any Indian grocery store)
Cumin seeds                                  1/4 tsp
Turmeric                                        1/4 tsp
Salt                                                 To taste
Coriander Powder                          1/4 tsp
Cumin Powder                               1/4 tsp
Olive Oil                                        2 tbspn
Olive Oil                                         For shallow frying on a skillet
Bread Crumbs                                As needed to cover cutlets on both sides

Optional- Some people like adding chopped cashewnuts to the mixture after it cools down, or adding one whole cashew on one side , before frying.


Blanch the spinach and blend with defrosted green peas, cilantro leaves, mint leaves and green chillies or Serrano peppers. Set aside.

Heat olive oil in a pan on medium heat, add cumin seeds which should crackle a bit, add chopped ginger and saute till the ginger turns a light golden brown. Now add salt, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder , chaat masala and the green paste set aside. Blend well and after about a minute add the mashed potatoes and grated paneer cheese. Stir till well blended.

After the mixture cools down, form patties and dip them in bread crumbs on all sides. This ensures a crispy exterior. Shallow fry on a hot skillet with olive oil. Keep heat at a medium setting and turn these cutlets only minimally to ensure even cooking and crisping on both sides.

Serve with any sauce or chutney of your choice. Use these as Vegetarian patties in sandwiches too. I love making something healthy but covering it up with other flavors so it sounds yummy and is gobbled away by the kids!! Makes for good finger foods or cocktail snack too. Enjoy!