Street food in India holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers. From tangy chaats to spicy pakoras, every bite is a journey of flavor. Among the numerous street food delicacies, Dahi Ke Kebabs have carved their niche for their unique taste and melt-in-the-mouth texture. These kebabs, made primarily with yogurt and spices, are a perfect blend of creaminess and spice, making them a favorite snack across the country.
What Are Dahi Ke Kebabs?
Dahi Ke Kebabs are soft, creamy kebabs made using hung curd (thickened yogurt), potatoes, and aromatic spices. Unlike traditional kebabs, these are vegetarian yet packed with flavors that can rival even meat kebabs. They are usually shallow fried or deep-fried until golden brown, forming a crisp outer layer while retaining a smooth, creamy center. This contrast in texture is what makes Dahi Ke Kebabs a street food favorite.
These kebabs are often served hot with green chutney, tomato ketchup, or a sprinkle of chaat masala. They are popular in northern India, especially in Delhi, Lucknow, and other cities known for their vibrant street food culture.
Ingredients for Making Dahi Ke Kebabs
Making Dahi Ke Kebabs at home requires simple ingredients that are often available in every kitchen. Here’s what you need:
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Hung Curd/Yogurt: 1 cup
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Boiled Potatoes: 2 medium-sized, mashed
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Cornflour: 2 tablespoons
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Breadcrumbs: 3 tablespoons (for coating)
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Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 teaspoon
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Green Chilies: 2, finely chopped
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Chaat Masala: 1 teaspoon
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Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
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Cumin Powder: ½ teaspoon
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Salt: to taste
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Fresh Coriander Leaves: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
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Oil: for shallow frying
Step-by-Step Homemade Recipe
Making Dahi Ke Kebabs is easy and fun. Follow this step-by-step guide to recreate the street food magic at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Hung Yogurt
Take fresh yogurt and hang it in a muslin cloth for 4-5 hours to remove excess water. The thicker the yogurt, the better your kebabs will hold shape.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the hung yogurt, mashed potatoes, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, red chili powder, chaat masala, salt, and coriander leaves. Mix well until you get a smooth, soft dough-like consistency.
Step 3: Shape the Kebabs
Divide the mixture into small portions and shape them into round or oval patties. Roll each patty in breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy outer layer when frying.
Step 4: Fry the Kebabs
Heat oil in a non-stick pan or skillet. Shallow fry each kebab on medium heat until golden brown on both sides. Avoid high heat to prevent the kebabs from breaking.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve Dahi Ke Kebabs hot with green chutney, tomato ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce. A sprinkle of chaat masala enhances the flavor even more.
Why Dahi Ke Kebabs Are Perfect Street Food
The charm of Dahi Ke Kebabs lies in their unique texture and flavor. The creamy interior melts in your mouth, while the crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch. Street vendors often serve them fresh and hot, sometimes garnished with onions, lemon wedges, or pomegranate seeds.
Dahi Ke Kebabs are not only delicious but also healthier than deep-fried snacks made with meat or excessive oil. Using yogurt and potatoes as the base provides protein, calcium, and energy without compromising on taste.
Tips to Make Perfect Dahi Ke Kebabs
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Use Thick Yogurt: Always hang yogurt properly to remove water; watery yogurt will make the kebabs soft and difficult to shape.
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Don’t Over Fry: Fry on medium heat to ensure the outside crisps while the inside stays creamy.
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Add Cornflour: Cornflour helps bind the mixture and prevents the kebabs from breaking.
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Customize Spices: Adjust chili and spice levels according to your taste preference.
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Serve Immediately: Dahi Ke Kebabs are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Variations of Dahi Ke Kebabs
Street food enthusiasts often experiment with the traditional recipe. Some popular variations include:
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Paneer Dahi Kebabs: Adding crumbled paneer for extra richness.
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Vegetable Dahi Kebabs: Incorporating finely chopped vegetables like carrots, beans, or capsicum.
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Baked Dahi Kebabs: For a healthier option, bake instead of frying.
Conclusion
Dahi Ke Kebabs are a delightful street food that offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. They are easy to prepare at home and bring the authentic street food experience to your kitchen. Whether you are hosting a party, preparing a snack for your family, or craving a street food treat, Dahi Ke Kebabs are an ideal choice.
Experience the magic of Indian street food with these soft, creamy, and flavorful kebabs. Once you try them, they are sure to become a favorite in your snack repertoire.
