Are you ready to take your snack game to the next level? Look no further than the crispy, flavorful world of pakoras! These Indian-inspired fritters are a staple at any gathering, and when done right, they’re absolutely irresistible. From classic onion to creative combinations like cheesy corn and zucchini-feta, there’s a pakora recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering pakora recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get cooking. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, these flavorful twists are sure to delight. So grab some chickpea flour, onions, and spices, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of pakoras!
Classic Onion Pakora
A popular Indian snack, onion pakora is a crispy and flavorful treat that’s easy to make at home. This recipe yields a delicious batch of onions coated in a light batter, fried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the yogurt and lemon juice to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
3. Dip each onion slice into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated onions in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Spicy Potato Pakora
This popular Indian street food is a delicious twist on traditional potato fritters. Spicy Potato Pakora combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the crunch and zing of a flavorful batter.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, boiled, peeled, and mashed
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, chickpea flour, cornstarch, salt, baking soda, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm with a dollop of chutney and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer and Spinach Pakora
A flavorful and crispy snack that combines the creaminess of paneer with the earthy taste of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicate fried pakora. This recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or as a side dish for your favorite Indian meals.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons gram flour
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the paneer, spinach, gram flour, cumin seeds, and salt.
2. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the paneer-spinach mixture into the hot oil.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Herb Pakora
Chicken and Herb Pakora Recipe
A flavorful and crispy snack, Chicken and Herb Pakora is a popular Indian-inspired treat that combines juicy chicken with aromatic herbs and spices.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, cumin powder, and coriander powder.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and mix until coated with the spice mixture.
- Heat the olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, add 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and flatten slightly.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Repeat with the remaining chicken mixture. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of pakoras)
Cheesy Corn Pakora
A crispy and flavorful Indian-inspired snack that combines the sweetness of corn with the creaminess of cheese. Perfect as a snack or appetizer for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the grated cheese and mix until well combined.
3. Add the corn kernels and mix gently.
4. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil.
7. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Cauliflower and Peas Pakora
Pakora, a popular Indian snack, is an excellent way to enjoy the flavors of crispy fried cauliflower and sweet peas. This recipe combines the two in a tasty and easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen peas
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, baking soda, salt, and red chili powder (if using).
2. Add the cauliflower florets and peas to the mixture. Toss until they are evenly coated.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. When the oil is hot, carefully add the cauliflower-peas mixture in batches, without overcrowding.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with lemon wedges and cilantro for garnish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Mint Pakora
Pakoras are a beloved Indian snack, and this recipe adds a unique twist with the addition of eggplant and mint. The creamy flavor of the eggplant pairs perfectly with the cooling properties of mint, making for a delicious and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together eggplant, mint, and 1/4 cup of the chickpea flour.
2. Add the remaining chickpea flour, baking soda, and salt to the bowl. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into the oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chickpea Flour and Chili Pakora
Chickpea Flour and Chili Pakora Recipe
Spice up your snack time with this crispy and flavorful Pakistani-inspired treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour (gram flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chickpea flour, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a thick batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until the pakora turns golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pakoras you make)
Enjoy your crispy and spicy Chickpea Flour and Chili Pakoras!
Sweet Potato and Turmeric Pakora
Pakoras are a staple in Indian cuisine, but this recipe adds a delightful twist by incorporating sweet potatoes and turmeric. The result is a crispy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together mashed sweet potatoes, chickpea flour, salt, and baking soda.
2. Add turmeric powder and mix well to combine.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small portions of the mixture into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with cilantro leaves as garnish, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bread and Coriander Pakora
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack that can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a side dish. This recipe combines the simplicity of bread with the warmth of coriander to create a delicious and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 2 slices of white bread, cut into small pieces
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, besan, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt.
2. Dip each piece of bread into the mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Fry the bread pieces until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with chopped cilantro for garnish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Coconut Pakora
Shrimp and Coconut Pakora Recipe
Experience the delightful fusion of Indian flavors with this delectable shrimp and coconut pakora recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 12-15 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated coconut
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the dry ingredients and knead into a smooth dough.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a small egg.
4. Flatten each portion slightly and place 1-2 shrimp in the center.
5. Sprinkle with coconut flakes and fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or diamond shape.
6. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to shallow-fry the pakoras.
7. Fry the pakoras until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated coconut and garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Banana Flower Pakora
This recipe takes a unique approach by using banana flowers as the main ingredient, which are then deep-fried to perfection. The resulting pakoras are crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 banana flowers
– 1/2 cup gram flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Clean and pat dry the banana flowers.
2. In a bowl, mix together gram flour, cornstarch, salt, baking soda, and cumin seeds.
3. Dip each banana flower into the flour mixture, coating it evenly.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the banana flowers in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
6. Remove the pakoras from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil and Ginger Pakora
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack or appetizer that can be made with a variety of ingredients. This recipe combines the warmth of ginger and spices with the comfort of lentils for a unique and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the cooked lentils, chickpea flour, baking powder, salt, cumin, coriander, and ginger.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the oil and fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Zucchini and Feta Pakora
This crispy and savory Pakistani-inspired snack is perfect for a quick appetizer or as a side dish. Zucchini and feta pakora combines the sweetness of zucchinis with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, chickpea flour, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the water to the mixture and stir until it forms a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove the pakora from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the pakoras)
Mushroom and Garlic Pakora
A flavorful Indian-inspired snack that combines earthy mushrooms with aromatic garlic and crispy pakora batter, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together mushrooms and garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together besan, water, salt, and baking soda to form the batter.
3. Add the mushroom mixture to the batter and mix well.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish and Curry Leaf Pakora
A flavorful and crispy Indian-inspired snack that combines the delicate taste of fish with the warm aroma of curry leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fish pieces (cod or tilapia)
– 1/2 cup gram flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10-12 curry leaves, chopped
– Water for batter
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together gram flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add fish pieces to the flour mixture and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to medium-high heat.
4. Dip each piece of marinated fish into water, then coat with flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the pakoras until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Sprinkle chopped curry leaves over the fried pakoras.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the fish pieces).
Tofu and Sesame Pakora
Experience the flavors of India with this crispy and savory Tofu and Sesame Pakora recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the tofu cubes to the flour mixture and toss until well coated.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Carefully add the tofu cubes to the oil, in batches if necessary.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. In a small bowl, mix together sesame seeds, lemon juice, and soy sauce.
8. Toss the fried tofu cubes with the sesame seed mixture until well coated.
9. Garnish with chopped green chili (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mixed Vegetable and Ajwain Pakora
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack or appetizer that can be easily made at home with a variety of ingredients. This recipe combines the goodness of mixed vegetables with the warm, earthy flavor of ajwain to create a delicious and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (beans, carrots, cauliflower, potatoes)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon ajwain seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, ajwain seeds, and baking soda.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and salt; mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Drop small portions of the batter into the oil and fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
6. Drain excess oil and serve hot with chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these 18 crispy pakora recipes, each with its own flavorful twist! From classic onion and potato to more adventurous options like banana flower and shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Discover how simple it is to add excitement to your snacks with ingredients like cheese, herbs, and spices. Whether you’re a vegetarian, meat-lover, or just looking for new inspiration, this collection of recipes has got you covered. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of pakora!
