Gobi Manchurian is more than just a recipe—it’s an emotion for Indian street food lovers. A perfect blend of crispy fried cauliflower tossed in a spicy-tangy sauce, this dish is the star of Indo-Chinese cuisine. Whether served dry as a starter or with gravy for a main course, Gobi Manchurian offers a crunch in every bite and a punch of flavors in every chew.

🥦 Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Fritters:
- 1 medium cauliflower (cut into medium florets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/4 cup cornflour
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- Water (as needed for batter)
- Oil for deep frying
For the Manchurian Sauce:
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp finely chopped ginger
- 2 green chilies (sliced)
- 1/4 cup spring onions (white part)
- 1/4 cup capsicum (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp red chili sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 tsp vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spring onion greens for garnish
👨🍳 How to Make Gobi Manchurian
Step 1: Prepare and Blanch the Cauliflower
- Wash the cauliflower florets thoroughly.
- Bring water to a boil, add a little salt, and blanch the florets for 3–4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter and Fry
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornflour, chili powder, salt, pepper, and just enough water to make a smooth, semi-thick batter.
- Dip each blanched floret in the batter and deep fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on kitchen paper.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Heat oil in a wok or pan. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add spring onion whites and capsicum. Stir-fry on high flame for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the soy sauce, chili sauce, ketchup, and vinegar. Stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Toss the fried cauliflower into the sauce while keeping the flame on high. Mix until the sauce coats the florets evenly.
- Garnish with chopped spring onion greens.
- Serve hot and crispy!
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
- Serve dry Gobi Manchurian as a party snack or starter with mint chutney.
- For a full meal, add a little water and cornstarch to make gravy and pair it with fried rice or noodles.
🧠 Tips & Variations:
- Crispier tip: Double-fry the florets for an ultra-crispy texture.
- Add bell peppers and onions for more color and crunch.
- Use air fryer or bake for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
- Turn it into a meal by adding tofu, mushrooms, or paneer.
❓FAQs:
Q1: Can I make Gobi Manchurian gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or chickpea flour, and use gluten-free soy sauce.
Q3: What’s the difference between dry and gravy Gobi Manchurian?
Dry version is crispier and served as a starter. Gravy version includes a thick sauce and is typically eaten with rice or noodles.
🌿 Final Thoughts:
Gobi Manchurian is a timeless fusion dish that effortlessly brings together the boldness of Chinese flavors with the zest of Indian spices. Whether you’re making it for a casual snack or a festive gathering, this crispy cauliflower dish never fails to impress. Try it once, and it’ll surely become a weekly favorite!