Crispy makai tikki recipe | easy winter snack made with sweet corn

Makai Tikki is a popular Indian winter snack made using sweet corn (makai), mild spices, and simple pantry ingredients. Loved for its crispy outside and soft, juicy inside, this corn tikki is a perfect tea-time snack during chilly evenings. Packed with natural sweetness from corn and cooked with minimal oil, Makai Tikki is not only delicious but also comforting and wholesome.

Whether served with green chutney or tomato ketchup, Makai Tikki makes a great snack for family gatherings, winter parties, or quick evening cravings.

Ingredients for Makai Tikki

• – 2 cups sweet corn kernels (boiled or steamed)
• – 1 medium potato (boiled and mashed)
• – 2 tablespoons cornflour or breadcrumbs
• – 1 small onion (finely chopped – optional)
• – 1–2 green chilies (finely chopped)
• – 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• – ½ teaspoon cumin powder
• – ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• – ½ teaspoon garam masala
• – Salt to taste
• – Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)
• – Cooking oil for shallow frying

Preparation Method

1. 1. Boil or steam the sweet corn kernels until soft.
2. 2. Coarsely crush the corn using a blender or mortar—do not make a smooth paste.
3. 3. In a mixing bowl, add crushed corn, mashed potato, cornflour, chopped onion, green chilies, ginger paste, and all dry spices.
4. 4. Add salt and fresh coriander leaves.
5. 5. Mix everything well to form a soft, bindable mixture.
6. 6. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into round or oval tikkis.
   

How to Cook Makai Tikki

1. 1. Heat a pan and add enough oil for shallow frying.
2. 2. Place the tikkis gently on medium heat.
3. 3. Cook until golden brown on one side, then flip carefully.
4. 4. Fry both sides until crisp and evenly cooked.
5. 5. Remove and place on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.

Serve hot with green chutney or tomato sauce.

Tips for Perfect Makai Tikki

• – Do not over-grind the corn; coarse texture gives the best bite.
• – If the mixture feels sticky, add more breadcrumbs or cornflour.
• – For a healthier version, pan-fry with minimal oil or air-fry.
• – Add grated cheese for a rich, restaurant-style taste.
• – Best enjoyed hot, especially during winter evenings.