Indian

Hara Bhara Kabab

Hara bhara kabab binds spinach, peas and potato into green patties and shallow-fries them.

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Hara Bhara Kabab

1 hr 35 mintotal

35 min hands-on1 hr hands-off

Prep 20 min · Cook 15 min

Serves
2
Difficulty
Medium
Spice
Mild

Ingredients

Quantities are for 2 servings.

You'll need: Stovetop.

Includes chilling time.

Method

  1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Submerge the spinach leaves to blanch for exactly 1 minute. Immediately extract them and plunge into an ice-water bath to lock in their vibrant chlorophyll green.

    1 min

  2. Extract the spinach and squeeze it ruthlessly to eliminate absolutely all residual moisture. Mince it exceptionally fine by hand, or pulse it roughly in a food processor without adding a drop of liquid.

  3. Boil the green peas until they are completely tender, drain them well, and mash them to a coarse paste.

  4. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cold, grated potatoes, the dry minced spinach, the mashed peas, and the grated paneer.

  5. Season the medley with ginger, green chilli, chaat masala, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices.

  6. Incorporate the roasted gram flour and breadcrumbs as your structural binders. Knead gently until the mass feels entirely dry, cohesive, and non-sticky to the touch.

  7. Lightly lubricate your palms with oil. Portion the mixture and shape into elegant, perfectly round, flat patties. Firmly press a single cashew half into the exact center of each kabab.

  8. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed skillet designed for shallow frying. Carefully arrange the kababs in the pan, maintaining medium-low heat to ensure an even crust without burning.

  9. Turn them over carefully once the underside is deep golden brown and crusted. Fry the other side until it is just as crisp. Drain on kitchen paper before serving.

How to tell it's done

You are looking for a delicate, crisp, golden exterior that yields immediately to a vividly green, plush, and melt-in-the-mouth center.

Getting it right

Tip

Chef's Tip: Too much water is what breaks kababs. Squeeze the spinach dry and use the potatoes cold from the fridge, and the texture comes out right.

What to serve it with

Serve immediately as an elegant appetizer, accompanied by a sharp, spicy mint yogurt dip and a fresh wedge of lemon.