Cutlets | කට්ලට්

Sri Lankan Cutlets are a popular snack or appetizer that showcase the culinary diversity of Sri Lanka. These delicious deep-fried treats are filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced meat, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. They are perfect for gatherings, tea parties, or as a quick snack. Here’s a unique and well-detailed recipe for Sri Lankan Cutlets:

Ingredients:
For the Filling:

• 250 grams ground beef or chicken
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 potato, boiled and mashed
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
  For Coating:
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Breadcrumbs, as needed
  For Frying:
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying
  Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and
   minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
2. Add the grated carrot, boiled and mashed potato, and frozen peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for a
   few minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
3. Sprinkle curry powder, chili powder, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander,
   and salt over the vegetables. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon,
   until it is browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
5. Once the filling has cooled, add the chopped fresh coriander leaves and mix well to
   incorporate.
6. Take a small portion of the filling and shape it into a small oval or cylindrical cutlet. Repeat
   until all the filling is used.
7. Dip each cutlet into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
8. Roll the coated cutlet in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the
   surface. Repeat with the remaining cutlets.
9. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot for deep frying.
10. Carefully place the coated cutlets into the hot oil and fry them in batches until they turn
    golden brown and crispy on all sides.
11. Remove the cutlets from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper
    towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
12. Serve the Sri Lankan Cutlets hot as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own
    or with a dipping sauce of your choice.
    Enjoy your unique and flavorful Sri Lankan Cutlets!