Crispy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible, pakoras are a beloved snack across many cultures. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to accompany your favorite chai or a satisfying crunch to munch on while watching a movie, these savory fried delights have got you covered. And the best part? The possibilities are endless! With this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering pakora recipes that showcase the incredible diversity of flavors and ingredients you can use to create these crispy bites.
From classic combinations like onion and spinach to innovative twists featuring sweet potato and turmeric or lentil and garlic, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, our recipe collection is designed to inspire and delight. So grab your spices, get ready to fry up some fun, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of pakoras!
Onion and Spinach Pakora
A flavorful and crispy Indian snack that combines the pungency of onions with the nutritious goodness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the chopped onion and spinach.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the besan, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the dry mixture to the onion-spinach mixture and mix well.
4. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until the pakora is golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Potato and Coriander Pakora
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack that can be made with a variety of ingredients. This recipe combines the comfort of potatoes with the warmth of coriander to create a deliciously crunchy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup gram flour
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon coriander leaves, chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges and chutney for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together grated potatoes, gram flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the chopped coriander leaves and mix well.
3. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to fry the pakoras.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato mixture into the hot oil.
5. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges and chutney, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Cheese Pakora
Mushroom and Cheese Pakora Recipe
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish. This recipe combines the flavors of sautéed mushrooms and melted cheese with crispy fried dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (button or cremini)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the flour mixture and knead into a soft dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of sautéed mushrooms and 1 tablespoon of grated cheese in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan and fry the pakoras until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with a sprinkle of cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer and Mint Pakora
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack that can be enjoyed with a cup of chai or as an accompaniment to your favorite meal. This recipe combines the creamy texture of paneer (Indian cheese) with the freshness of mint, wrapped in a crispy potato-based batter.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 medium-sized potato, boiled and mashed
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the paneer, mint leaves, and salt.
2. Add the mashed potato and baking powder to the bowl and mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. When the oil is hot, add 2-3 patties to the pan and fry until they are golden brown and crispy (approximately 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove the pakoras from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower and Chili Pakora
A flavorful twist on traditional Indian pakoras, this recipe combines cauliflower florets with spicy chili peppers for a crunchy and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2-3 dried red chilies, crushed or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cauliflower florets, crushed red chilies or cayenne pepper, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and enough water to form a thick batter.
3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry battered cauliflower florets in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, depending on the number of batches.
Eggplant and Sesame Pakora
Experience the delightful fusion of Indian flavors with this crispy and savory eggplant pakora recipe, flavored with toasted sesame seeds and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges and cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated eggplant slices in batches until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove the pakoras from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the pakoras while still warm.
7. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and garnished with cilantro leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mixed Vegetable Pakora
A flavorful and crispy Indian snack, Mixed Vegetable Pakora is a perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and gram flour. This recipe is easy to make and can be served as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (onion, cauliflower, carrots, potatoes)
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon oil
– Water for binding
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the gram flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the mixed vegetables to the dry mixture and mix well.
3. Gradually add water to bind the mixture into a thick batter.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the oil, about 3-4 at a time.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn and Bell Pepper Pakora
A flavorful and crunchy Indian-style snack that combines the sweetness of corn with the slight crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 large bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together corn kernels and bell pepper pieces.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, baking soda, cumin powder, and red chili powder (if using).
3. Pour the dry mixture over the corn-bell pepper mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small portions of the pakora mixture into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
8. Sprinkle with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato and Turmeric Pakora
Sweet Potato and Turmeric Pakora Recipe
As the sweetness of sweet potatoes meets the earthy warmth of turmeric, this unique pakora recipe will transport your taste buds to a world of comfort and delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into patties.
5. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry pakoras for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Lentil and Garlic Pakora
Lentil and Garlic Pakora Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional Indian fritters, these Lentil and Garlic Pakoras are perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils (red or green)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the cooked lentils, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, baking powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the oil, about the size of a golf ball.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain the pakoras on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite chutney.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bread and Green Chutney Pakora
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack that can be enjoyed with tea or as an appetizer. This recipe combines the crispy texture of bread pakoras with the tangy flavor of green chutney.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bread slices (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup green chutney
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the bread into small pieces and soak them in water for about 30 minutes.
2. Drain the excess water and mix the bread with a pinch of salt.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Take a handful of the bread mixture and shape it into a ball or a flat disk.
5. Fry the pakoras until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with green chutney for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (including soaking time)
Banana and Coconut Pakora
Banana and Coconut Pakora Recipe
A sweet and savory twist on traditional Indian fritters, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together sliced bananas, desiccated coconut, and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
3. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
4. Add the banana-coconut mixture to the pan and fry until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pakoras from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle with coriander powder and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini and Fennel Pakora
A flavorful fusion of Indian spices and fresh zucchini and fennel, this pakora recipe is perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 bulb fennel, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cumin seeds, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the grated zucchini and sliced fennel to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to fry the pakoras.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the hot oil.
5. Fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea Flour and Coriander Pakora
A popular Indian street food, these crispy and flavorful fritters are perfect for a snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite curries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chickpea flour, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a thick batter. The consistency should be similar to that of pancake batter.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, about 1-2 inches apart.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pakora)
Fish and Spiced Batter Pakora
A flavorful and crispy Indian-inspired snack that combines the goodness of fish with the warmth of spiced batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish pieces (any white fish works well)
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 2 tablespoons chickpea flour
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lemon wedges and chutney, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, chickpea flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt.
2. Add water to the mixture to form a thick batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
3. Dip fish pieces into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. When the oil is hot, carefully slide in the battered fish pieces and fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove the pakora from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Pumpkin and Cumin Pakora
A twist on the classic Indian fritter, this Pumpkin and Cumin Pakora recipe combines the warmth of cumin with the sweetness of roasted pumpkin. Perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cumin seeds, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cumin seeds.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, cilantro, and 1/4 cup water to the dry mixture. Mix until a thick batter forms.
5. Heat about 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the batter into the oil, about 1/4 cup each.
7. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting) + 10-12 minutes (frying)
Fried Cheese and Herb Pakora
Experience the magic of Indian street food with this crispy fried delight filled with melted cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together grated cheese, cilantro, mint leaves, garam masala powder, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Gradually add the flour to the cheese mixture and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Once hot, using a spoon, drop small portions of the cheese mixture into the oil, making sure they are not crowded.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Curry Leaf Pakora
A popular Indian street food, Pakora is a crispy fried flatbread filled with flavorful chicken and curry leaves. This recipe combines the best of both worlds – tender chicken and aromatic curry leaves wrapped in a crunchy batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup curry leaves, chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
3. Add yogurt, ghee or oil, chicken, and curry leaves. Mix well.
4. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to fry the Pakora.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and serve warm with your favorite chutney.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispy goodness of pakoras with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic onion and spinach to unique sweet potato and turmeric, each bite is packed with flavor. Try potato and coriander for a satisfying snack or cauliflower and chili for a spicy kick. Don’t miss out on mushroom and cheese, paneer and mint, or eggplant and sesame for a taste of India. Whether you’re a vegetarian or meat-lover, there’s something for everyone in this collection of crispy pakora recipes. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the perfect bite!
