A popular street food throughout the Indian subcontinent, pakora is a spiced vegetable fritter traditionally made with besan, a roasted gram flour found at South Asian specialty stores. However, unroasted chickpea flour, like the one produced by Bob’s Red Mill, also works well. Hot, crispy pakoras are perfect finger food to dip into a cooling cucumber-mint raita.
Published: February 23, 2019
Ingredients
Directions
Line large plate with paper towels. Set aside.
In mixing bowl, combine besan, onion, tomato, cilantro, red chili powder, baking powder and sea salt. Add ice water gradually to form smooth, lump-free batter thick enough to coat back of spoon.
Warm oil in frying pan until 350°F, as registered with candy thermometer. Working in batches, add 1 tablespoon pieces of batter to oil. Fry for 3–4 minutes, or until pakoras appear golden. Place on lined plate to drain. Serve immediately. Serves 4.
Raita Ingredients
Raita Directions
Combine all ingredients in medium bowl. Chill at least 1 hour. Serve chilled.
Pair It
Lightly fried fritters call for bubbles. Try this dish with the J Vineyards & Winery NV Cuvée 20 from the Russian River Valley in California.
