Vegetable Pakora
Vegetable Pakora
5 from 28 votes
A common street food sold by vendors all over the cities of India and Pakistan. Made with a variety of vegetables and spices this deep-fried snack is extremely addictive.
Vegetable Pakora

Originating from the vibrant streets of India, Vegetable Pakora is a beloved snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a rainy day or a festive gathering, these crispy, golden nuggets of flavor are sure to please everyone’s taste buds.

Don’t be intimidated by its exotic name – making Vegetable Pakora at home is easier than you think! With simple ingredients and basic cooking techniques, you’ll be whipping up a batch of these mouthwatering snacks in no time.

Vegetable Pakora strikes the perfect balance between crispy and tender, with a medley of vegetables encased in a flavorful gram flour batter. Each bite offers a burst of earthy spices and the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried vegetables.

Plus, with its colorful assortment of veggies, Vegetable Pakora not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a vibrant pop to any snack platter.

While traditionally served with a side of mint chutney or tangy tamarind sauce, Vegetable Pakora is versatile enough to pair with your favorite dip or sauce.

Expert Tip: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute chickpea flour or rice flour for the gram flour.

Ingredients

Onions: Onions add a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor to Vegetable Pakora. When sliced and mixed with the gram flour batter, they create a delicious contrast of crispiness and tenderness.

Bell Pepper: The vibrant colors and crunchy texture of bell peppers elevate the visual appeal of Veg Pakora. They contribute a subtle sweetness and a refreshing crunch to each bite.

Carrot: Julienned carrots not only provide a pop of color but also add a natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch to the pakoras. They balance out the spices and add a hint of earthiness to the dish.

Potatoes: Potatoes lend a comforting creaminess to Vegetable Pakora. When thinly sliced and fried, they become irresistibly crispy on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside.

Spinach: Chopped spinach not only adds a vibrant green hue to the pakoras but also infuses them with a fresh, earthy flavor. It contributes to the nutritional value of the dish, making it a wholesome snack option.

Gram Flour: Gram flour, also known as besan, serves as the base for the pakora batter. It creates a light and crispy coating around the vegetables, resulting in perfectly fried pakoras with a golden-brown exterior.

Crushed Chillies: Crushed chillies add a fiery kick to Vegetable Pakora, giving them a spicy flavor profile. Adjust the amount according to your preference for heat, but be prepared for a flavorful punch with every bite.

Coriander Seeds: Ground coriander seeds impart a warm, citrusy aroma and a subtle nuttiness to the pakora batter. They enhance the overall flavor profile and complement the other spices beautifully.

Turmeric Powder: Turmeric powder not only lends a vibrant yellow color to Veg Pakora but also adds a subtle earthiness and a hint of bitterness to the dish. It offers various health benefits and contributes to the visual appeal of the pakoras.

Chilli Powder: Chilli powder adds an extra layer of heat and depth of flavor to the pakoras. It enhances the spiciness of the dish and creates a harmonious balance of flavors.

Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning Vegetable Pakora, bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables and spices. It helps to balance the flavors and ensures that each bite is perfectly seasoned.

Green Chillies: Finely chopped green chillies add a burst of freshness and heat to Veg Pakora. They contribute to the overall spiciness of the dish and provide a tantalizing contrast to the other ingredients.

Expert Tip: Adjust the spices according to your preference for heat and flavor. Feel free to add more or less chilli powder and crushed chillies to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair Vegetable Pakora with a side of tangy green chutney for a refreshing contrast of flavors. The coolness of the mint chutney complements the spiciness of the pakoras perfectly.
  • Serve Vegetable Pakora alongside a bowl of creamy yogurt raita for a cooling accompaniment. The creamy texture of the raita helps balance out the heat from the spices.
  • Create a colorful snack platter by serving Vegetable Pakora with other Indian appetizers like samosas, bhajis, and papdi chaat. This variety of flavors and textures will impress your guests and make for a delightful snacking experience.
  • For a light and healthy option, serve Vegetable Pakora on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a squeeze of lemon juice. The freshness of the greens adds a vibrant touch to the dish while providing a nutritious base.

Expert Tip: Make sure the vegetables are thinly sliced or julienned for even cooking and a uniform texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my Vegetable Pakora extra crispy?

To ensure your Vegetable Pakora turns out crispy, make sure the batter is not too thick. Additionally, fry the pakoras in hot oil and avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing them to fry evenly and become crispier.

Can I make Vegetable Pakora ahead of time?

While Vegetable Pakora is best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can prepare the batter and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Fry the pakoras just before serving to ensure they retain their crispiness.

Can I use different vegetables for Vegetable Pakora?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences. Cauliflower, spinach, and eggplant are popular choices for Vegetable Pakora. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for each vegetable.

Can I make Vegetable Pakora without deep frying?

While deep frying yields the crispiest results, you can also try baking or air frying the pakoras for a healthier alternative. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.

How do I store leftover Vegetable Pakora?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy.

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Vegetable Pakora

Vegetable Pakora

by Nabeela Kauser
A common street food sold by vendors all over the cities of India and Pakistan. Made with a variety of vegetables and spices this deep-fried snack is extremely addictive.
5 from 28 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetiser
Cuisine Indian, Pakistani
Servings 4
Calories 228 kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 Onions
  • 1 Bell Pepper
  • 1 Carrot
  • 1 Potatoes
  • 50 g Spinach
  • 150 g Gram Flour
  • 1 tsp Crushed Chillies
  • 1 tbsp Coriander Seeds
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 1 tsp Chilli Powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 2 Green Chillies
  • Water As required

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, add the sliced onions, sliced bell peppers, julienned carrots, julienned potatoes, chopped spinach, gram flour along with all the spices and mix well
  • Slowly add the water as required to create a wet mixture that incorporates all the ingredients evenly
  • In a deep fryer heat up oil on medium heat
  • Using your hands or a tablespoon add about a tablespoon of mixture to the deep fryer ensuring that the pan is not overcrowded then cook on each side for 3-4 minutes on either side undisturbed until golden brown
  • Serve hot and enjoy with homemade mint chutney!

Video

Notes

Nutritional facts:
The provision of nutritional information is done merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 228kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 11gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.4gSodium: 723mgPotassium: 811mgFibre: 9gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 4965IUVitamin C: 58mgCalcium: 63mgIron: 3mg
Keyword Aloo, Capsicum, Cooking, Food, Recipe, Vegan, Vegetables, Vegetarian
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Latest comments (7)

Nabeela Kauser

You’re right; terminology can vary, and some people may find “chickpea flour” more familiar. Different regions and cuisines often use different names for the same ingredient. Either way, I hope you enjoy the recipe! 😊

Cook with Nabeela

Hi, I'm Nabeela!

I love to cook! I want to share with you my favourite, delicious family-friendly recipes. I want to inspire you to create fantastic food for your family every day.

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