Oats Vegetable Tikki – A Healthy Twist to Your Snack Time
Oats are often seen as a plain and boring breakfast option, but what if you could turn them into a crispy, flavorful snack? Oats Vegetable Tikki is a delicious and nutritious way to incorporate oats into your diet without compromising on taste. This dish is packed with fiber, vitamins, and the goodness of vegetables, making it a perfect option for breakfast, evening snacks, or even a light dinner. Whether you serve them with chutney, chai, or use them in a burger or wrap, these tikkis are sure to be a hit!
Many people hesitate to eat oats because they find them bland or unappealing in texture. The typical image of oats as a mushy, porridge-like meal discourages those who prefer crispy, savory options. Additionally, some believe that oats are meant only for sweet dishes, limiting their use in daily cooking. However, this Oats Vegetable Tikki recipe breaks the stereotype, offering a crunchy, flavorful, and versatile dish that even picky eaters will love!
Nutritional Benefits of Oats Vegetable Tikki
Oats are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps in digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and keeps you full for longer. They are also rich in protein, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, making them a heart-healthy ingredient. Unlike refined flour-based snacks, tikkis made with oats support weight management and provide long-lasting energy.
The vegetables in the tikkis enhance their nutritional value, adding important vitamins and minerals. Carrots provide vitamin A and antioxidants, bell peppers contribute vitamin C and fiber, while onions and garlic offer anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting properties. The use of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric further enhances digestion and metabolism, making this snack a well-balanced and wholesome choice.
How to Make Oats Vegetable Tikki
Start by boiling and mashing three medium-sized potatoes in a mixing bowl. To this, add finely chopped bell peppers (½ of any color), ¼ cup grated carrot, one finely chopped onion, some coriander, two to three green chilies, a small piece of grated ginger, and two finely chopped cloves of garlic. These ingredients add freshness, crunch, and flavor to the mixture.
Next, enhance the taste with two teaspoons of roasted and coarsely pounded coriander seeds, one teaspoon of roasted and coarsely pounded cumin seeds, a pinch of turmeric, chili powder, garam masala (or kitchen king masala), and salt as per taste. Mix everything well to ensure the flavors blend evenly.
Now, prepare the oats binding mixture by dry roasting ¼ cup of oats in a pan and grinding them into a coarse powder using a mixer on pulse mode. Add this oats powder to the vegetable mixture and squeeze in some fresh lime juice for an extra zing. Apply a little oil to your palms, shape the mixture into small tikkis, and coat them with white sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
Heat a pan with a little oil or butter on medium flame and place the tikkis one by one. Shallow-fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. This ensures a crunchy outer layer while keeping the inside soft and flavorful. Once done, remove them from the pan and serve hot with a side of spicy green chutney or chai.
Conclusion
Oats Vegetable Tikki is a great way to enjoy a crispy snack while maintaining a healthy diet. The combination of oats, vegetables, and aromatic spices ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. These tikkis are versatile—you can enjoy them on your own, use them in a burger, or even make a chaat by topping them with yogurt, chutney, and sev. It’s delicious, easy to make, and packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to your meal plan. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a healthy breakfast, or a creative way to add more fiber to your diet, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a shot and enjoy a guilt-free, flavorful snack.
