Easy Steps for Making Yummy Veg Manchurian at Home

Veg Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that combines crispy vegetable fritters with a savory, flavorful sauce. It’s a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a delicious snack, Veg Manchurian is an easy and tasty dish to make at home. With a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the magic of this restaurant-style dish in your kitchen. Here’s how you can make Veg Manchurian at home!

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Veg Balls:

• 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped beans (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers (optional)
• 1/4 cup corn flour
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

For the Manchurian Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped green chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped spring onions (green part)
• 1/4 cup bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili sauce (optional for extra spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon cornflour mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Salt to taste

Step 1: Prepare the Veg Balls

Start by preparing the vegetable mixture for the Manchurian balls.

1. Squeeze Excess Water: Place the finely chopped cabbage, grated carrots, and other vegetables in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out any excess water, as this will help in making crispy balls.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped and grated vegetables with cornflour, all-purpose flour, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well.
3. Form the Balls: Take small portions of the vegetable mixture and roll them into small, round balls. Make sure they are firm and tightly packed so they don’t break while frying.

Step 2: Fry the Veg Balls

Now that the balls are ready, it’s time to fry them:

1. Heat Oil: Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan or wok to submerge the balls completely. You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small portion of the batter; it should sizzle immediately.
2. Fry the Balls: Carefully drop the veggie balls into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them on medium heat until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
3. Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, remove the balls using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Manchurian Sauce

While the veg balls are cooling down, you can start preparing the sauce.

1. Heat Oil: In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent.
3. Add Bell Peppers and Green Chilies: Add the chopped bell pepper and green chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the bell peppers soften slightly but still retain some crunch.
4. Combine Sauces: Add the soy sauce, vinegar, tomato ketchup, and red chili sauce (if using). Stir everything together and cook for a minute.
5. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornflour-water mixture to the pan to thicken the sauce. Stir until the sauce reaches a smooth, glossy consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency.
6. Add Sweetness and Seasoning: Add a pinch of sugar and salt to taste. Stir well and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Combine the Veg Balls and Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, it’s time to combine everything:

1. Add Veg Balls to Sauce: Gently drop the fried veg balls into the prepared sauce. Toss them lightly, ensuring the balls are coated well with the sauce. Be careful while mixing to avoid breaking the balls.
2. Simmer for a Few Minutes: Let the balls cook in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The balls will soak in the sauce, becoming even more flavorful.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To give your Veg Manchurian a finishing touch:

1. Garnish with Spring Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped spring onions on top to add freshness and color.
2. Serve Immediately: Veg Manchurian is best served hot and fresh, either on its own as an appetizer or with steamed rice, noodles, or fried rice.

Making Veg Manchurian at home is simple, and with a little effort, you can enjoy this flavorful Indo-Chinese dish whenever you like. With crispy veg balls and a savory, tangy sauce, Veg Manchurian is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and treat yourself to this delicious dish straight from your kitchen!