Cheap Eats with Monika Joshi

In the mood for some authentic Indian food, but not willing to empty your pockets for it? This week, “Cheap Eats” brings you two simple yet appetizing recipes that can zest up your usual diet.

Vegetable Cutlets

• 1 medium potato
• 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots,
• green beans, corn, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)
• 1 finely chopped green chili (adjust to your taste)
• Olive oil

Optional: 4-6 salty crackers

Makes about five cutlets

Cooking time: 30–35 minutes

First up are vegetable cutlets, which make a great snack or side dish with ketchup or a variety of Indian sauces called “chutneys.” Vegetable cutlets can also serve as a flavorful substitute for burger patties.

Though you may not have all the ingredients at hand, it will probably only cost you a few bucks to go out and get them. And believe me, the trip to the grocery store is well worth it.

Microwave the potato for two minutes or until tender. Once it cools, peel and mash into a large bowl. Mix in the thawed mixed vegetables, cilantro, salt, chili and breadcrumbs. Shape into round patties about 1/2-inch thick. For extra crunchiness, you can crumble up the crackers and roll each patty in the crumbs.

Meanwhile, heat the oil on medium-high flame in a frying pan. To test if the oil is hot, drop in a small morsel of batter and if it bubbles to the surface right away, it’s ready. Once the oil is hot enough, slip in the patties. Fry a few cutlets at a time until they are golden-brown on both sides. Eat them while they’re hot.

This is a basic vegetable cutlet recipe, but there are ways to get more creative. You can substitute fresh veggies for the frozen mix or change the shape of the cutlets!

Mango Lassi

• 1/2 cup mango puree or half of a fresh mango, chopped
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
• Several ice cubes

Makes one glass
A cross between a milkshake and a smoothie, mango lassi is the perfect refreshment to cool you down on a scorching summer day. A popular summer beverage that originated in Punjab, India, it requires only a few ingredients and takes just three minutes to prepare.

Wise word of warning: Lassi can often make you dozy, especially after a meal (don’t ask me why), so it might be a good idea to try this after finals.
Mix all ingredients in a blender for about two minutes or until smooth. If the consistency appears to be too thick, add water as needed. Add ice cubes and blend until crushed. Pour and drink.

Bon appétit! Swad lo!

A cross between a milkshake and a smoothie, mango lassi is the perfect refreshment to cool you down on a scorching summer day. A popular summer beverage that originated in Punjab, India, it requires only a few ingredients and takes just three minutes to prepare.Wise word of warning: Lassi can often make you dozy, especially after a meal (don’t ask me why), so it might be a good idea to try this after finals.Mix all ingredients in a blender for about two minutes or until smooth. If the consistency appears to be too thick, add water as needed. Add ice cubes and blend until crushed. Pour and drink.

Bon appétit! Swad lo!