As the winter season brings an abundance of fresh, leafy greens to Indian markets, food enthusiasts are looking for delicious and healthy ways to incorporate them into their diets. One classic and beloved option is the Hara Bhara Kebab, a vibrant green patty that is both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for evening tea-time or as a party appetizer, this dish turns simple vegetables into a crispy, flavourful delight.
Why Hara Bhara Kebabs Are a Winter Must-Try
Winter is the peak season for greens like spinach (palak), which form the heart of this recipe. These kebabs are not just tasty; they are packed with the goodness of vegetables, making them a smarter snacking choice. The process involves mashing blanched greens and peas, combining them with spices, and shallow-frying to golden perfection. The result is a snack that is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with traditional Indian flavours.
Gathering Your Ingredients
To recreate this restaurant-style snack at home, you will need a set of simple ingredients. The recipe calls for 1 cup of blanched spinach and ½ cup of green peas. The base is bound together with 2–3 boiled potatoes. For the characteristic flavour, you will need 2 green chillies, 1 tablespoon of ginger, and a blend of spices including 1 teaspoon each of cumin powder and chaat masala, along with ½ teaspoon of garam masala. Salt is added to taste. To help bind the mixture and achieve a crisp coating, add 2 tablespoons of cornflour or bread crumbs. Fresh coriander leaves and cashews or raisins for stuffing add the final touches. You will also need oil for shallow frying.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Kebabs
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by thoroughly washing the spinach and peas. Blanch them briefly in hot water. This step helps in retaining the vibrant green colour and makes the greens easier to mash.
Step 2: Mash the Base
After blanching, it is crucial to squeeze out all the excess water from the spinach and peas. This prevents the kebab mixture from becoming too wet. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the boiled potatoes and mash everything together until you have a coarse, well-combined mixture.
Step 3: Add Flavour and Binding Agents
Next, incorporate the finely chopped green chillies, grated ginger, all the dry spices (cumin powder, chaat masala, garam masala), and salt. Add the cornflour or bread crumbs and freshly chopped coriander leaves. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and holds together easily.
Step 4: Shape and Stuff the Kebabs
Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a flat, round disc. For a gourmet touch, place a single cashew or raisin in the centre of the disc and seal the mixture around it, ensuring the stuffing is completely enclosed.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Crispness
Heat a thin layer of oil in a flat pan or tawa over a medium flame. Carefully place the shaped kebabs in the pan. Shallow-fry them for a few minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful, golden-brown and crisp crust. Avoid flipping them too often to prevent breaking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, transfer the hot kebabs to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve them immediately with a side of fresh mint chutney and lemon wedges. The combination of the hot, crispy kebab with the cool, tangy chutney is simply irresistible.
The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion
This Hara Bhara Kebab recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it's a gateway to creating a healthy, satisfying snack that the whole family will love. It transforms seasonal produce into a dish that is perfect for cozy winter evenings, casual get-togethers, or even as a unique addition to your festive spread. The recipe was featured on ETimes.in on January 1, 2026, highlighting its relevance as a timely and tasty culinary idea. So, this season, skip the store-bought snacks and try making these wholesome kebabs at home. Your taste buds will thank you later!
