Saednews: Cutlet is a simple, mixed dish made from meat or chicken, potatoes, onions, and spices. It has both a great taste and popularity, and it is quick and easy to make. One problem that may sometimes occur is the cutlet falling apart while frying. This article attempts to teach several easy methods to prevent this issue.
Reasons and Tips to Prevent Cutlets from Falling Apart
Controlling the amount of onion juice: One of the main reasons cutlets fall apart is excess onion juice. Be sure to squeeze out the juice thoroughly before adding the onion to the mixture, or simply use less onion.
Boiled potatoes: To prevent cutlets from breaking apart, let the grated boiled potatoes cool before mixing them with other ingredients. Also, after kneading the mixture, refrigerate it for at least an hour before frying.
Egg quantity: The amount of egg in the mixture is important. If there's too little egg—especially the egg white—the cutlets may fall apart during cooking.
Use of chickpea or breadcrumb flour: To improve firmness, you can add some chickpea flour or breadcrumbs to the mixture. This is a good alternative if you prefer to avoid synthetic binders.
Properly heating the oil: Make sure the oil is fully heated before frying. If it's not hot enough, the cutlets may crumble and fall apart.
Using special cutlet seasonings: You can use specific spice blends for cutlets or meat patties, which help maintain their shape and enhance flavor.
Adequate salt: Too little salt can also cause the cutlets to fall apart while frying. Be sure to add a proper amount of salt to the mixture.
Avoid overcooked potatoes: The potatoes should not be too soft or mushy. Mixing in a portion of raw grated potato with the cooked ones can help maintain the right consistency.
Changing the oil: If foam appears on the surface of the oil while frying, it's a good idea to replace it with fresh oil. Also, adding a bit of turmeric to the oil before frying can enhance the cutlets’ color.
Use of brewed saffron: For better taste and color, you can add some brewed saffron to the mixture. This is a great tip for making flavorful and attractive cutlets.
Balanced acidity with vinegar or lemon juice: Adding a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice to the cutlet mixture can enhance the flavor and help keep them intact. These acidic ingredients also add a pleasant tang.
Gluten-free options: If you’re sensitive to gluten, you can use gluten-free alternatives like rice flour or chickpea flour as a binder.
