Are you in the mood for a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make meal? Look no further than the Indian street food classic, Frankie. This delightful wrap combines the convenience of portable food with the burst of flavors from a well-seasoned filling, making it an ideal choice for a snack or a light meal. In this post, we will guide you through a simple Frankie recipe that you can prepare at home with ingredients readily available in your kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start, ensure you have the following ingredients:
- 2 large whole wheat rotis or parathas (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of shredded or minced chicken, paneer, or potatoes for the filling
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1⁄2 cup of bell peppers (optional, for added texture and flavor)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1⁄2 tsp cumin powder
- 1⁄2 tsp garam masala
- 1⁄4 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 1⁄2 cup tomato puree or sauce
- 1 tbsp oil for cooking
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves for garnish
- 1 lemon for squeeze
- Mint or coriander chutney for spreading (optional)
Steps to Prepare the Frankie
Let’s dive into making this delicious Frankie:
1. Preparing the Filling
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and green chilies, sauté until translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
- Stir in the bell peppers if you’re using them, and cook until slightly soft.
- Now, add your choice of filling (chicken, paneer, or potatoes). Cook well if using meat, ensuring it’s cooked through.
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir to coat the filling evenly.
- Pour in the tomato puree or sauce. Simmer until the filling thickens to a desired consistency.
- Finish by adding coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon for freshness.
👨🍳 Note: The consistency of the filling should be dry enough not to make the roti soggy but moist enough to stay flavorful.
2. Assembling the Frankie
- Warm your roti or paratha on a flat pan until it’s slightly crispy. If using raw, cook it until done.
- Spread a thin layer of mint or coriander chutney on the roti if desired.
- Place a generous amount of the prepared filling in the center of the roti.
- Fold in the sides of the roti over the filling, then roll it tightly from bottom to top.
3. Serving
You can enjoy your Frankie straight away or cook it briefly on a pan to give it a slightly grilled taste:
- Heat a little oil on a flat pan. Place the Frankie seam side down to seal it, then cook until slightly golden and crispy on both sides.
- Serve hot, optionally with extra mint or coriander chutney on the side.
Variations to Explore
Here are some creative twists on the traditional Frankie:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Cheese Frankie | Add grated cheese to the filling or as an additional layer inside the Frankie before rolling. |
| Veggie Delight | Use a mix of seasoned vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and peas instead of the traditional filling. |
| Tandoori Frankie | Marinate your protein (chicken or paneer) with tandoori masala before cooking for a different flavor profile. |
Tips for the Perfect Frankie
- Keep the filling dry; excess moisture will make the roti soggy.
- Pre-roast your roti or paratha for a crispier texture.
- Experiment with different chutneys or sauces for variety.
In wrapping up our exploration of this delectable Indian street food, we find that Frankies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner option or a fun dish to impress your guests, the simplicity and flavor of Frankie make it a go-to choice. With a variety of fillings and the ability to adjust spices to your preference, Frankies offer a delightful culinary experience that's both comforting and exciting.
What is the difference between a Frankie and a roll?
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The primary difference is in the texture and preparation. Frankie typically has a semi-dry filling and is often served with a crispy outside texture, whereas a roll might have a moist or gravy-like filling and can be softer in texture.
Can I make Frankie with leftover food?
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Yes, absolutely! Leftover meats, vegetables, or even curries can be transformed into a delicious Frankie filling. Just ensure to dry out excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
How do I store Frankies for later consumption?
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If you need to store Frankies, wrap them individually in aluminum foil or parchment paper and refrigerate. They can be reheated on a pan or in a microwave, but for best results, reheat on a pan for crispiness.
