Baked Veg Manchurian Recipe Easy and Healthy Guide

Baked Veg Manchurian is a delightful Indo-Chinese dish that brings together the rich flavors of sautéed vegetables, aromatic spices, and a tangy, savory sauce. Unlike the traditional deep-fried version, this baked variation offers a healthier alternative without compromising on taste or texture.

Imagine perfectly baked, crispy vegetable balls glazed with a vibrant Manchurian sauce that’s both sweet and spicy, making it an irresistible appetizer or main course for any occasion.

This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the classic flavors of Manchurian while keeping things light and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a party, or just craving a comforting meal, baked veg Manchurian is sure to impress.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Veg Manchurian is a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite Indo-Chinese flavors with less oil and fewer calories. The baking process ensures the vegetable balls become wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

This method also reduces mess and clean-up compared to deep frying.

The sauce is bursting with umami from soy sauce, a hint of tanginess from vinegar, and a mild heat from chili sauce, perfectly coating each bite-sized ball. Moreover, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, packed with nutritious veggies like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, making it a wholesome treat for your taste buds.

If you love experimenting with fusion dishes, this baked take on a classic will quickly become a staple. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe for more flavor inspirations!

Ingredients

• For the Veg Manchurian Balls:
• 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped capsicum (bell pepper)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped spring onions (white part)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 cup cornflour
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp oil (for brushing)
• For the Manchurian Sauce:
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
• 1 tbsp finely chopped ginger
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped spring onions (green part)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped capsicum
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 1/4 cup water
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable stock

Equipment

• Baking tray
• Mixing bowls
• Non-stick frying pan or wok
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Whisk or fork (for mixing cornflour slurry)
• Oven or convection oven
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetable mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped cabbage, grated carrots, capsicum, and spring onion whites. Add minced garlic and ginger for an aromatic base.
2. Add binding agents: Mix in all-purpose flour, cornflour, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture binds together and can be shaped into balls. If too dry, sprinkle a little water; if too wet, add more flour.
3. Shape the Manchurian balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth, bite-sized balls. Place them on a greased baking tray, leaving some space between each ball.
4. Bake the balls: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Brush the veg balls lightly with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness.
5. Prepare the Manchurian sauce: While the balls bake, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Add veggies and sauces: Toss in chopped spring onion greens and capsicum. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Add soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, and vinegar. Mix well.
7. Thicken the sauce: Pour in water or vegetable stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir the cornflour slurry to recombine and slowly add it to the pan while stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. Adjust salt as needed.
8. Combine and serve: Once the veg balls are baked and golden, gently add them to the sauce. Toss carefully to coat each ball evenly. Cook together for another 2 minutes to infuse flavors.
9. Garnish and enjoy: Garnish with fresh spring onions or coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, you can spray the veg balls with a little cooking spray before baking.

If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or rice flour.

Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like beans, corn, or mushrooms to the ball mixture for added texture and flavor. For a vegan-friendly option, ensure your chili sauce and ketchup do not contain animal products.

For a saucier dish, increase the quantity of water or vegetable stock and adjust the cornflour accordingly to maintain thickness. You can also experiment with adding a dash of sesame oil in the sauce for a nutty aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Baked Veg Manchurian pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside steamed noodles or a crisp Asian slaw.

As an appetizer, serve the veg balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, accompanied by a cooling dip like cucumber raita or a simple yogurt-based dip.

Looking for more exciting recipes to complement your meal? Check out our Green Goodness Juice Recipe for a refreshing drink or indulge in the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe for dessert.

Conclusion

Baked Veg Manchurian is a delicious, healthier twist on the beloved Indo-Chinese classic. By baking instead of frying, you achieve a crispy texture with much less oil, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious food lovers.

The medley of vegetables combined with a tangy, spicy sauce creates a dish that’s full of flavor and satisfying to eat.

This recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and ideal for any meal occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, the step-by-step instructions make it accessible for everyone.

Don’t forget to explore more creative dishes like the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe to keep your kitchen adventures exciting and flavorful!

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