Kothimbir Chi Vadi Recipe

These delicious and savory pan-fried cilantro cakes are perfect for appetizers when entertaining or even during tea time as snacks.

Summary

Preparation Time10 MinCooking Time45 Min
Ready In55 MinDifficulty LevelMedium
Servings4Cuisine
CourseTaste
VegetarianMain Ingredient
Interest Group

Recipe Story

This dish is from the southwestern coastal state of Maharashtra and is one of my all time favorite recipes. It’s very tasty and easy to prepare. Kothimbir chi Vadi are basically savory pan-fried cilantro cakes. They are great for entertaining; you can serve them as an appetizer or a side dish. They can also be made well in advance and gently warmed through in a low oven just before serving. You will need either a rice cooker or a steamer to make this dish. You can also use a kadai(or wok) with a removable rack.

Ingredients

 Fresh cilantro leaves2 Cup (32 tbs), finely minced
 Besan1 Cup (16 tbs) (chickpea or gram flour)
 Rice flour2 Tablespoon
 Thai chilies3 Small, finely minced
 Ginger1⁄2 Inch, finely minced
 Garlic clove1 Large, finely minced
 Toasted sesame seeds1 Teaspoon
 Kala masala/Garam masala1 Teaspoon
 Turmeric1 Teaspoon
 Asafoetida1 Pinch
 Lemon1⁄2 , juiced
 Salt To Taste
 Water1⁄2 Cup (8 tbs) (adjust the quantity of water as needed to make the batter)
 Oil4 Tablespoon (For shallow frying)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cilantro leaves with the green chilies, ginger and garlic. Add the toasted sesame seeds, kala masala, turmeric, asafetida, besan, rice flour and lemon juice. Slowly add water and mix well to form a thick batter without any lumps.

Pour the mixture into a greased pan (or whatever dish will fit into your pressure cooker, steamer…). Tap it gently on your countertop. Place the dish into your steaming apparatus(if you are using a pressure cooker, the “weight” is not necessary) and let steam for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick can be inserted cleanly in the center.

Remove and let cool. At this point the dish is completely edible and may be served. But for a tastier version, heat a deep skillet on medium heat. Add enough oil for shallow frying.

Remove the cilantro “cake” and cut into even pieces. Fry in the hot oil until golden brown on all sides. Drain well and serve with your favorite chutney.
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