How to Make Beetroot and Peas Cutlet (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Beetroot and Peas Cutlet, known as 'Chukandar aur Matar ki Tikki' in Hindi, is a vibrant and nutritious North Indian snack often relished during lunch or as a light meal. Rooted in traditional Indian flavors, this cutlet combines the earthy sweetness of beetroot (chukandar) and the subtle, fresh notes of green peas (matar), making it a delightful and colorful addition to any meal. These cutlets are typically crisped on a tawa (griddle), using minimal oil to retain their healthy goodness. In North India, especially during vibrant festivals like Holi and Diwali, vegetable cutlets are a popular choice for their ease of preparation, visual appeal, and ability to suit various dietary needs. The addition of Indian spices such as jeera (cumin), dhania (coriander), and green chilies infuses the cutlets with a burst of flavor that pleases the Indian palate. Served hot with green chutney or dahi (curd), Beetroot and Peas Cutlet is a loved choice among both adults and children. It is also a wonderful way to introduce vegetables into the diet, making it perfect for family lunches or festive gatherings. Health-conscious home cooks appreciate this dish for its use of fresh, seasonal vegetables, minimal oil, and wholesome spices. With the option to bake or air-fry, these cutlets become even healthier, fitting seamlessly into modern Indian lifestyles. Whether enjoyed as part of a lunch thali or as a standalone snack, Beetroot and Peas Cutlet offers a taste of tradition with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup, grated Beetroot (chukandar) (fresh, red beetroot)
- 1/2 cup Green peas (matar) (boiled and mashed)
- 1 medium, boiled & mashed Potato (aloo) (acts as binding agent)
- 1 small, finely chopped Onion (pyaz)
- 1 teaspoon Ginger-garlic paste
- 1, finely chopped Green chili (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons, chopped Coriander leaves (dhaniya) (fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon Roasted cumin powder (bhuna jeera)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chili powder (lal mirch)
- 1/2 teaspoon Chaat masala
- to taste Salt
- 2 tablespoons Whole wheat flour (atta) or besan (for binding)
- 2 teaspoons Oil (for shallow frying on tawa)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Wash
Wash, peel, and grate the beetroot. Boil green peas and potato until soft. Mash the peas and potato thoroughly.
Step 2 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, combine grated beetroot, mashed peas, mashed potato, chopped onion, ginger-garlic paste, green chili, and coriander leaves.
Step 3 · Add roasted cumin powder
Add roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, chaat masala, salt, and whole wheat flour (atta) or besan. Mix until the mixture binds well.
Step 4 · Divide the mixture and shape into medium-sized cutlets or tikkis
Divide the mixture and shape into medium-sized cutlets or tikkis.
Step 5 · Heat a tawa (griddle) and brush lightly with oil
Heat a tawa (griddle) and brush lightly with oil. Place the cutlets and cook on medium heat until golden brown and crisp on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Step 6 · Remove the cutlets and place them on absorbent paper to remove exce...
Remove the cutlets and place them on absorbent paper to remove excess oil. Serve hot with green chutney or curd (dahi).
Why this recipe is healthy
This recipe is a healthy choice as it is high in fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based nutrients, while being low in saturated fats and cholesterol. The use of atta or besan instead of refined flour increases the fiber content, while shallow frying on a tawa minimizes oil usage. Including a variety of colorful vegetables ensures a good balance of vitamins and minerals, supporting overall wellness and weight management.
A note on tradition
In North India, vegetable cutlets like Beetroot and Peas Cutlet are often enjoyed as a teatime snack, party appetizer, or festive treat. Their vibrant color and wholesome ingredients make them popular during Holi and Diwali gatherings. The dish also reflects India's tradition of using seasonal produce and minimal wastage. Regional variations may include the use of different spices or flours, but the essence remains a healthy, flavorful patty enjoyed by all age groups.