Mysuru Zest Bite

Background and History

The Mysuru Zest Bite is an innovative twist on traditional Indian street food, inspired by the vibrant culinary culture of Mysuru, a city known for its rich history and exquisite cuisines. Renowned for its majestic palaces and picturesque gardens, the city also boasts an array of flavorful dishes that capture the essence of South Indian gastronomy. The Mysuru Zest Bite pays homage to this heritage by combining locally-sourced spices and fresh ingredients to create a snack that's both modern and rooted in tradition.

Ingredients

• Palak (Spinach) - 1 cup
• Paneer - 200 grams
• Besan (gram flour) - 1/2 cup
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Ginger - 1-inch piece, grated
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Green Chilli - 2, finely chopped
• Coriander leaves - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Oil - for shallow frying
• Chaat Masala - optional, for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Wash the palak thoroughly and blanch it in hot water for 2 minutes. Drain and grind it to a coarse paste. Crumble the paneer and set aside. Sift the besan to remove any lumps. Keep the chopped onion, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped green chillies ready.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the palak paste, paneer, onion, ginger, garlic, and green chillies. Add the sifted besan, along with chopped coriander leaves, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and form a sticky dough. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Shape and Fry

Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into small patties. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, shallow fry the patties in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a cooking timer for precise timing. Once cooked, place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Garnishing and Serving

Sprinkle chaat masala on the freshly fried bites for an additional zing. Serve hot with a side of mint chutney or tamarind sauce for dipping. This adds a burst of flavor, complementing the earthy and spicy notes of the Mysuru Zest Bite.

Enjoying the Meal

The Mysuru Zest Bite is perfect for a light snack or a starter before a hearty meal. Its vibrant combination of spices mingles harmoniously with the tender, flavorful filling. Suitable for any occasion, this bite can be paired with a chilled lassi or your favorite beverage. It's best enjoyed in the company of friends and family during a cozy gathering or as a delightful treat to unwind after a busy day.