Gobi 65 is a tantalizing, crispy Indian starter, a vegetarian twist on the classic Chicken 65. This popular dish, found in restaurants and street food stalls alike, features cauliflower as its star. Marinated in a blend of flour, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, and herbs, then deep-fried, it offers a crunchy, satisfying bite. Perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a tea-time snack, this recipe brings a burst of flavor to any meal.
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Gobi 65 (Cauliflower Fry)
Gobi 65: A crispy, vegetarian delight, this dish transforms cauliflower into a star appetizer. Marinated with spices like garam masala and ginger-garlic paste, then deep-fried to golden perfection, it's a crunchy, flavorful treat. Ideal as a starter, side, or snack!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Cauliflower, florets, cut into medium size
- ¾ tsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- ½ tsp Turmeric powder
- ½ tsp Garam masala powder
- 1 tsp Ginger garlic paste
- ¼ tsp Cornflour
- ¼ tsp Rice flour
- 1 tsp Curd
- 1 tsp Lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for frying
- 1 sprig Curry leaves
- 2 cups Hot Water
Instructions
Preparing Gobi 65
- Begin by soaking the cauliflower florets in hot water with a pinch of turmeric for about 15 minutes. This helps in cleaning and slightly softening the florets. Drain them well afterwards.
- Marinate the cauliflower with a mix of chili, coriander, turmeric, pepper powder, ginger-garlic paste, curd, lemon juice, and salt. Let this sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the florets.
- Next, add corn and rice flour to the marinated cauliflower, ensuring each floret is evenly coated. This combination of flours will give a nice crisp texture to the Gobi 65.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, add curry leaves for an aromatic touch, and then deep fry the marinated cauliflower florets. Fry until they turn crisp and golden brown, which indicates they're perfectly cooked.
- Finally, remove the cauliflower from the oil and let it drain to remove excess oil. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crunch.
Serving
- Enjoy your Gobi 65 hot and crispy, perfect as a standalone snack or an appetizer. For more creative pairing ideas, refer to the serving suggestions section to elevate your meal experience.
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Chef's Notes and Tips
Here are some valuable tips to make perfect Gobi 65.
Preparation and Ingredients:
- Ingredient Choices: Keep it authentic with no added sauces or ketchup. For a twist reminiscent of restaurant flavors, mix in soy and chili sauce during the marination and tempering process.
- Optimal Floret Size: For the best texture, cut the cauliflower into small to medium florets. This size is key to achieving that desired crunchiness, setting it apart from the usual large florets.
- Blanching Technique: Avoid discoloration and bitterness by soaking the florets in hot water, followed by blanching. This step is especially important if the cauliflower has been overly sun-exposed.
- Batter Consistency: Ensure the batter is neither too thick nor too thin. A perfect batter coats the cauliflower well and doesn't drip off, contributing to the perfect crunch.
- Freshness of Ingredients: Use fresh cauliflower and freshly ground spices for the best flavor. The freshness of ingredients plays a significant role in the final taste.
- Allergy-Friendly Options: For gluten-sensitive individuals, use chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
Cooking and Serving:
- Frying Temperature: Fry the florets at a medium heat. This controlled temperature is crucial for ensuring that each piece is cooked through evenly while achieving a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you opt for deep-frying for that classic indulgence or pan-frying for a lighter touch, both methods will yield delectable results.
- Consistent Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature while frying. If the oil is too hot, the florets will brown quickly but remain uncooked inside. If it's too cool, they'll absorb more oil and become soggy.
- Resting Time Post-Frying: Once fried, let the Gobi 65 rest for a couple of minutes on a paper towel. This helps in draining excess oil and enhances the crispiness.
- Avoiding Sogginess: Serve the Gobi 65 immediately after cooking to prevent it from becoming soggy, especially if you’re serving it as a starter or snack.
Flavor Customization and Appeal:
- Spice Blend Customization: Adjust the amount of garam masala and other spices according to your taste preferences. A little tweak can make a big difference in flavor.
- Optional Tempering Step: While not included in the basic recipe, adding a tempering of fragrant ingredients like onion, cumin, ginger, and garlic after frying can elevate the dish with an aromatic twist.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don't hesitate to experiment with different flavors like a pinch of chaat masala or lemon juice sprinkled over the top before serving for an extra zing.
Nutrition Info
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 26kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 0.5g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 37mg | Potassium: 228mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 174IU | Vitamin C: 46mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg
Disclaimer
We're not nutrition experts, and the nutritional information provided is an estimate. Please use it as a guide. For precise details, it's best to consult a professional. To learn more, please view our Detailed Disclaimers.
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Serving Suggestions
Discover the many ways to enjoy Gobi 65 with these versatile serving suggestions. From traditional pairings to innovative combinations, find the perfect match for every occasion:
- Classic Indian Meal: Pair Gobi 65 with traditional Indian main courses like biryani, and pulao. The spiciness of the Gobi 65 complements these dishes well.
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve with a range of dipping sauces such as mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or a yogurt-based dip to add different flavor profiles to each bite.
- Tea-Time Snack: Gobi 65 makes for a perfect tea-time snack. Pair it with a cup of masala chai or coffee for a delightful mid-afternoon break.
- As a Starter: Present Gobi 65 as a starter or appetizer before a main meal. It's a great way to kickstart a multi-course dinner.
- Salad Accompaniment: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balance of flavors. The crispiness of Gobi 65 contrasts well with a light, refreshing salad.
- With Raita: Pair it with a cooling cucumber or boondi raita to balance the spiciness of the dish.
- Wrap or Sandwich Filling: Use Gobi 65 as a filling in wraps or sandwiches, adding lettuce, cucumber, and a spread of your choice for a fusion meal.
- Party Platter: Serve as part of a larger appetizer spread in gatherings or parties, complementing other finger foods.
- Kids’ Favorite Snack: Present it in a fun way for children, perhaps with a side of ketchup or a mild cheese dip, making it a hit among the younger crowd.
- With Flavored Rice: Combine with lemon rice or coconut rice for a fulfilling, flavorful meal.
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