Chicken-free poha nuggets

Crispy nuggets are a favourite with both children and adults. Chicken nuggets may be the popular choice, but the same crunchy texture and satisfying bite can be achieved without using chicken at all. Flattened rice, known locally as aval or poha, works surprisingly well as a base.

These nuggets are quick to make and come together in about 10 minutes, making them ideal for an after-school snack or a fast evening bite. Boiled potatoes give the mixture body, while spices and herbs add flavour. Once coated in breadcrumbs and fried, they turn golden and crisp on the outside and soft inside.

Here is an easy recipe for chicken-free poha nuggets.

Ingredients
1 cup aval/flattened rice
3 boiled potatoes
3 tsp chickpea flour
1 tsp cornflour
1 tsp chilli powder
1 tsp garlic, finely chopped
1 tsp green chilli, finely chopped
2 tsp coriander leaves, finely chopped
1 tsp oregano
Salt, to taste
Oil, for frying
1/2 cup bread crumbs

Preparation
Wash the flattened rice and drain it well using a sieve
Set aside
In a bowl, mash the boiled potatoes
Add the flattened rice, chickpea flour, cornflour, salt, chilli powder, oregano, green chilli, garlic and coriander leaves
Mix everything well and shape the mixture into small nuggets
Roll each nugget in bread crumbs and keep aside
Heat oil in a pan and fry the nuggets until they turn golden brown on all sides
Serve hot with ketchup or coriander chutney
These poha nuggets are crisp, comforting and easy to customise, making them a handy recipe for quick snacks without meat.