Veg Manchurian Balls Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’ve ever savored the bold, tangy flavors of Indo-Chinese cuisine, then you’re in for a treat with this Veg Manchurian Balls recipe. These golden, crispy vegetable dumplings swimming in a luscious, spicy Manchurian sauce are a perfect appetizer or even a main dish when paired with fried rice or noodles.

The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a savory soy-based sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Not only is this recipe vegetarian and packed with nutritious veggies, but it’s also quite straightforward to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, the step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating these delightful Manchurian balls from scratch.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-style dish with the comfort of homemade goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Veg Manchurian Balls are a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, they bring the perfect balance of crispy texture and rich, tangy sauce that keeps you coming back for more.

The recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by using plant-based substitutes for any dairy you might add as garnish.

Moreover, these Manchurian balls incorporate a variety of fresh vegetables, making them a nutritious choice without compromising on flavor. The sauce is versatile and can be adjusted to your heat preference, from mild to fiery spicy.

Finally, this recipe is excellent for meal prepping or entertaining since the balls can be made ahead and quickly tossed in the sauce when ready to serve.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrot, grated
  • 1/2 cup capsicum (bell pepper), finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup spring onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
  • 1/4 cup cornflour
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 inch ginger, finely minced
  • 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper powder, 1/2 tsp
  • Soy sauce, 2 tbsp
  • Tomato ketchup, 2 tbsp
  • Vinegar, 1 tsp
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying and stir-frying
  • Water, as needed for batter

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (one large for veg, one medium for batter)
  • Grater
  • Sharp knife and chopping board
  • Deep frying pan or wok
  • Slotted spoon
  • Cooking spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paper towels for draining fried balls
  • Serving plate or bowl

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetable mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped capsicum, and the white parts of the spring onions. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Mix well.
  2. Make the batter: To the vegetable mixture, add the all-purpose flour, cornflour, salt, and black pepper powder. Gradually add water little by little and mix until you get a thick batter that binds well but is not too runny. The mixture should hold together when shaped.
  3. Shape the Manchurian balls: Take small portions of the batter and roll them gently between your palms to form bite-sized balls, about the size of a walnut.
  4. Heat oil for deep frying: In a deep frying pan or wok, heat enough vegetable oil on medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of batter; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
  5. Fry the balls: Carefully drop the balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining balls.
  6. Prepare the Manchurian sauce: In a separate pan or wok, heat 1 tbsp oil on medium heat. Add the chopped green parts of the spring onions and sauté for 30 seconds.
  7. Add the sauce ingredients: Pour in the soy sauce, tomato ketchup, and vinegar. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture simmers.
  8. Thicken the sauce: Mix 1 tbsp cornflour with 3 tbsp water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Add this slurry to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
  9. Toss the Manchurian balls in sauce: Add the fried vegetable balls to the sauce, gently tossing to coat them evenly. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  10. Serve hot: Transfer the Veg Manchurian balls to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped spring onion greens if desired and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

“For extra crunch, refrigerate the shaped balls for 10-15 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better and fry crispier.”

Feel free to customize the vegetables according to what you have on hand. You can add finely chopped beans, corn, or even grated beetroot for a splash of color.

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or rice flour.

If you prefer baked Manchurian balls, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and bake them on a lightly greased sheet for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.

For a healthier twist, try air frying the balls for a fraction of the oil without compromising on the crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (approx.)
Calories 250 kcal
Carbohydrates 30 g
Protein 6 g
Fat 12 g
Fiber 4 g
Sodium 600 mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and quantities used.

Serving Suggestions

Veg Manchurian balls pair wonderfully with a steaming bowl of fried rice or simple steamed white rice. For a complete Indo-Chinese dinner, serve alongside vegetable hakka noodles or a hot bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup.

They also make an excellent party appetizer served with a side of tangy chili garlic sauce or sweet and sour dipping sauce. For a fun twist, try stuffing these balls inside a wrap or sandwich with fresh veggies and a drizzle of Manchurian sauce for a delicious snack.

Conclusion

This Veg Manchurian Balls recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Indo-Chinese favorite right at home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create crispy, flavorful balls coated in a savory sauce that satisfies both your taste buds and your craving for something special.

Whether for a weekday dinner or a festive occasion, these Manchurian balls bring bold flavors and nutritious veggies to the table.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes like Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or indulge your sweet tooth with the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious. And if you love experimenting with vegan baking, check out the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful Veg Manchurian balls!

📖 Recipe Card: Veg Manchurian Balls

Description: Crispy vegetable balls cooked in a tangy and spicy Indo-Chinese sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup grated cabbage
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped beans
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornflour
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 inch ginger, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for deep frying
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
  • 1 tsp chili sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • 2 spring onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Mix grated vegetables, all-purpose flour, cornflour, green chilies, garlic, ginger, and salt to form a dough.
  2. Shape the mixture into small balls.
  3. Heat oil in a pan and deep fry the balls until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  4. In another pan, heat 2 tbsp oil and sauté spring onions.
  5. Add soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, and water. Bring to a boil.
  6. Add the cornflour slurry to thicken the sauce.
  7. Add the fried balls to the sauce and toss gently.
  8. Cook for 2-3 minutes until balls absorb the sauce.
  9. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 25 g

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Marta K

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