Pakoras are a beloved snack in Indian households, especially during the monsoon season or chilly evenings. These deep-fried fritters, made with spiced gram flour (besan), are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re easy to make and pair perfectly with a cup of hot chai. Let’s dive into a simple yet delicious besan pakora recipe that you can try at home.
Ingredients
To make crispy and flavorful pakoras, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup besan (gram flour)
- 1 medium-sized onion (finely sliced)
- 1-2 green chilies (finely chopped)
- A handful of coriander leaves (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Water (as needed)
- Oil (for deep frying)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, add besan.
- Add cumin seeds, ajwain, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Gradually add water while mixing to form a thick, smooth batter. Ensure there are no lumps.
2. Add Vegetables
- Add chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander leaves to the batter.
- Mix well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the batter.
3. Fry the Pakoras
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil.
- Fry until the pakoras turn golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to cook evenly.
- Remove the pakoras and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
4. Serve
- Serve hot with mint chutney or tomato ketchup.
- Sprinkle a pinch of chaat masala for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Pakoras
- Make sure the batter is not too thin, as it will make the pakoras soggy.
- Adding ajwain not only enhances the flavor but also aids in digestion.
- Fry the pakoras in small batches to ensure even cooking.
- For extra crunch, add a tablespoon of rice flour to the batter.
Why Spices Matter
The secret to flavorful pakoras lies in the perfect balance of spices. Red chili powder, garam masala, and cumin give the pakoras a rich and aromatic flavor. Spices not only add taste but also provide health benefits such as improved digestion and enhanced immunity.
Conclusion
Crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, besan pakoras are the perfect snack for any occasion. With the right combination of besan and spices, you can recreate this classic Indian favorite at home. So, the next time you crave something crispy and spicy, try this quick and tasty pakora recipe!
