Healthy Kabuli Chana Pakora Recipe
Kabuli Chana Pakora is a nutritious, flavorful snack, perfect for tea time or as a tasty after-school treat. Made with kabuli chana (white chickpeas), fresh herbs, and a blend of spices, these crispy pakoras provide a delightful crunch while keeping things light and wholesome. With the earthy taste of chickpeas, the fragrance of coriander and mint, and a slight spice from green chillies and red chili powder, this snack brings a variety of flavors to your palate. Whether served with coriander-mint chutney or a sweet-tangy tamarind dip, they will leave your guests craving more.
This North Indian vegetarian recipe is easy to prepare and quick to cook, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both healthy and flavorful alternatives to traditional deep-fried snacks.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 300 minutes (includes soaking time)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kabuli Chana (White Chickpeas) | 1 cup (soaked for 8 hours) |
| Onion | 1 (chopped) |
| Green Chilli | 1 tablespoon (chopped) |
| Garlic | 1 tablespoon (chopped) |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1 tablespoon (chopped) |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 1 tablespoon (chopped) |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prep the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Soak the Kabuli Chana in water for at least 8 hours. Once soaked, drain the water and set the chickpeas aside. -
Grind the Kabuli Chana:
Take the soaked Kabuli Chana and pulse it in a mixer grinder. Aim for a coarse mixture rather than a smooth paste. The texture should still have a slight chunkiness to it, which will give the pakoras their unique crunch. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Transfer the pulsed chickpeas into a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped onions, green chilies, garlic, coriander leaves, mint leaves, fennel seeds, and red chili powder. Season with salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well-combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky but not runny. -
Heat the Pan:
Place a Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan on the stove over medium heat. Add about 1/4 teaspoon of oil into each of the cavities of the pan. The oil helps in crisping up the pakoras without deep frying. -
Form the Pakoras:
Once the oil is heated, spoon a tablespoon of the pakora mixture into each cavity of the pan. Flatten the mixture gently with the back of the spoon, making sure it fills the cavity well. -
Cook the Pakoras:
Allow the pakoras to cook for about 3 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown. Turn the pakoras gently to cook the other side until itβs also golden and crispy. The pakoras should be evenly cooked and crispy on the outside, while still soft on the inside. -
Drain and Serve:
Once the pakoras are cooked, remove them from the pan and drain on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve the Healthy Kabuli Chana Pakoras hot.
Serving Suggestions
These pakoras are perfect as a snack for high tea, as an appetizer, or as a delicious after-school snack for kids. Pair them with some Green Chutney (Coriander Mint Chutney) or Date and Tamarind Chutney for a delightful contrast of flavors. For a more warming treat, serve them with Ginger Cardamom Chai for a cozy and satisfying experience.
Nutritional Benefits
Kabuli Chana, the base of this dish, is a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. The addition of fresh herbs like coriander and mint not only enhances the flavor but also provides antioxidants and digestive benefits. Using a Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan ensures that these pakoras are light and not deep-fried, making them a healthier alternative to traditional pakoras.
This Healthy Kabuli Chana Pakora Recipe offers a balance of crispiness, flavor, and nutrition, making it a great addition to your snack repertoire. Enjoy these savory treats as part of a balanced diet without sacrificing taste!
