Lemongrass Starters

Lemongrass Starters

Lemongrass, or gandhatrina, adds a lively citrusy note to snacks and appetizers. From paneer skewers and momos to fritters and dips, it elevates Indian tea-time or festive spreads with fresh flavor, making simple starters both wholesome and aromatic.

Starters

These light, zesty appetizers are perfect for Indian tea-time or festive spreads, offering a fresh take on snacks like vada and tikkas.

  1. Lemongrass Paneer Skewers
    Marinate 8 oz paneer with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 2 tbsp yogurt, and 1 tsp tikka masala. Grill, serve with mint chutney. Serves 4.

  2. Lemongrass Veggie Rolls
    Wrap 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup shredded carrots, ½ cup cucumber, and 1 cup rice noodles in 8 rice paper sheets. Serve with tamarind chutney. Serves 4.

  3. Lemongrass Tofu Cubes
    Fry 8 oz tofu marinated in 1 tsp lemongrass powder and 2 tbsp soy sauce. Serve with sweet chili dip. Serves 4.

  4. Lemongrass Coconut Soup Shots
    Simmer ½ tsp lemongrass powder in 1 cup coconut milk with ½ tsp turmeric. Serve in 8 shot glasses with cilantro garnish. Serves 4.

  5. Lemongrass Garlic Thepla
    Knead 1 tsp lemongrass powder into 1 cup whole wheat flour dough with 1 tsp garlic paste. Cook on a tawa with ghee. Serves 4.

  6. Lemongrass Veggie Momos
    Fill 12 wrappers with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup cabbage, and ½ cup carrots. Steam, serve with spicy chutney. Serves 4.

  7. Lemongrass Corn Patties
    Mix 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup corn, ½ cup besan, and 1 tsp chaat masala. Fry into 8 patties, serve with chutney. Serves 4.

  8. Lemongrass Avocado Dip
    Mash 2 avocados with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, juice of 1 lime, and 2 tbsp cilantro. Serve with papad. Serves 4.

  9. Lemongrass Mushroom Bites
    Stuff 12 mushrooms with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup paneer, and 1 tsp spices. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes. Serves 4.

  10. Lemongrass Hummus
    Blend 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup chickpeas, 2 tbsp tahini, and juice of 1 lemon. Serve with khakhra. Serves 4.

  11. Lemongrass Corn Fritters
    Mix 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup corn, ½ cup besan, and 1 tsp cumin. Fry in 2 tbsp oil. Serve with chutney. Serves 4.

  12. Lemongrass Potato Chaat
    Toss 2 cups boiled potatoes with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ¼ cup tamarind chutney, and 2 tbsp sev. Serves 4.

  13. Lemongrass Tomato Toasts
    Top 8 papdis with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup diced tomatoes, and 1 tbsp cilantro. Drizzle with curd. Serves 4.

  14. Lemongrass Spiced Corn
    Toss 2 cups boiled corn with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 tsp chaat masala, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Serve warm. Serves 4.

  15. Lemongrass Potato Rounds
    Top 12 potato slices with 1 tsp lemongrass powder and ½ tsp chaat masala. Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes. Serves 4.

Tips for Using Lemongrass in Starters

  • Incorporate ½–1 tsp powder in marinades, doughs, or batters for subtle flavor.

  • Pair with garlic, cumin, or chaat masala to enhance aroma.

  • Add just before cooking to preserve freshness.

  • Store in a cool, airtight container to maintain potency.

Conclusion

Lemongrass elevates starters with a bright citrusy aroma. From tikkas to fritters, these recipes make snacks wholesome, flavorful, and ready for tea-time or festive occasions.