Making Pakora With Healthy Ingredients

Making pakoras with healthy ingredients is a great way to enjoy this popular Indian snack while reducing its calorie and fat content. Here’s a recipe for healthier pakoras:

Ingredients:

– 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/2 cup rice flour
– 1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced
– 1 small potato, thinly sliced or grated
– 1 cup spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
– Water (as needed)
– Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Chickpea flour, rice flour, cumin seeds, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, baking soda, and salt should all be combined in a sizable mixing bowl.

2. Add grated ginger, chopped green chili, sliced onions, grated potato, and chopped spinach to the flour mixture. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the flour and spice mixture.

3. Gradually add water and mix to form a thick, lump-free batter. The consistency should be such that it coats the back of a spoon without being too runny.

4. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. In the meantime, heat a non-stick pan or a frying pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of vegetable oil.

6. Once the pan is heated, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the pan, forming small round shapes.

7. Cook the pakoras on medium heat until the bottom side turns golden brown. Flip them carefully and cook the other side until it also becomes golden brown and crispy.

8. The pakoras should be taken out of the pan and placed on a paper towel to absorb any extra oil.

9. Serve the pakoras hot with green chutney or yogurt dip.

This healthier version of pakoras uses less oil and includes nutrient-rich vegetables like spinach and onions. Baking soda helps in making the pakoras fluffy without absorbing much oil during frying. Enjoy these delicious pakoras guilt-free as an appetizer or snack.