The winter season has a way of changing the cravings. As the air turns cold and crispy, many start looking for food that crackles, steams, and warms from the inside out. This is when snacks like cutlets are looked for. Fresh off the pan, crisp from the outside and soft from within, they feel especially made for cold winter evenings. Non-vegetarian cutlets, in particular, hit the sweet spot during winter; the richness of meat feels pleasant, the spices feel more generous, and the hot oil makes that compelling crunch that is often craved during cold weather.
They are easy to make in small batches, satisfying without having the need for a full meal, and can be paired perfectly with chai, soup, or even as a simple salad. Whether served during teatime, as starters at gettogether, or for cosy family gatherings, these classic winter cutlets provide warmth, texture, and flavour in every bite—exactly what the winter season demands.
Chicken Mince Cutlets
Chicken mince cutlets are an absolute winter comfort at their best. Finely minced chicken is mixed with mashed potatoes, onions, ginger-garlic, green chillies, and some warming spices, then shaped and shallow-fried until it turns golden. The outside remains crunchy, whereas the inside remains juicy and soft. During colder months, these cutlets feel extra satisfying, the spices warm you up from within, and the protein-rich filling feels hearty without worrying about any extra calories. Pair it with a cup of hot chai, green chutney, and they’re perfect for cold winter evenings and cosy get-togethers.
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Mutton Shami Kebabs
Shami kebabs are all about slow cooking, which is why they are a winter favourite. Mutton is cooked on a slow flame with chana dal and whole spices until it turns soft and tender, then ground and pan-fried into small soft patties. The result is melt-in-the-mouth softness that has a deep flavour that remains for a long time. Winters let the richness of mutton and ghee feel comforting and not overwhelming. Served hot with a side of sliced onions and lemon wedges, these cutlets deliver warmth and that unmistakable indulgence.
Fish Cutlets
Fish cutlets deliver balance to winter snacking. Flaked cooked fish is mixed with some mashed potatoes, pepper, herbs, and mild spices, then coated with bread crumbs and fried. Crisp from the outside and soft from within, they are lighter than those meat-heavy snacks and extremely satisfying. During the cold winter season, fried fish cutlets feel extremely enjoyable; the crunch counters beautifully with the cold crisp air. It tastes best when sizzling off the pan with imli chutney or mustard sauce, and is perfect for evenings when you want warmth without having any heavy snacks.
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Keema Aloo Cutlets
Keema aloo cutlets blend the heartiness of minced meat with the comfort of familiar potatoes. Cooked minced meat is spiced, folded and mashed into potatoes, then shaped into a patty, and fried until crisp. The potatoes keep the cutlets soft and do not dry them out, whereas the meat adds to the depth. During winter, this combination feels incredibly nourishing as well as filling. Served steaming hot with tomato ketchup or the chutney, these cutlets are perfect for cold nights, lazy dinners, or even tea-time snacks.
Egg And Chicken Cutlets
These cutlets are easy and deeply satisfying. Hard-boiled eggs are chopped and mixed with some minced chicken, onions, as well as herbs, basic spices, and then coated with bread crumbs and fried. The contrast between soft egg pieces and juicy chicken makes for a great texture. During the winter season, eggs add to the richness as well as comfort, making these cutlets feel warming and wholesome. They can be prepared quickly, are easy to serve, and perfect when the weather calls for something fried, satisfying, and also homemade.
(Image credit: Freepik)