Kaju Pakoda Recipe (Cashew Fritters)
Introduction:
Kaju Pakoda, also known as Cashew Fritters, is a popular Indian snack that perfectly blends the richness of cashews with a savory, crispy coating. Ideal for evening tea-time or as a quick appetizer, these bite-sized pakodas are made by coating cashews in a spiced chickpea flour (besan) and rice flour mixture, deep-frying them to golden perfection. The addition of mint, fennel, and ginger-garlic paste gives these pakodas a fresh and flavorful twist. Serve them hot with a side of tangy coriander-mint chutney and a cup of masala chai for an unforgettable snacking experience.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Snack
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cashews (kaju) | 1 cup |
| Besan (chickpea flour) | 1/2 cup |
| Rice flour | 1/2 cup |
| Red chili powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Ginger-garlic paste | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Fresh mint leaves | 1/2 cup, finely chopped |
| Fennel seeds (saunf) | 1 teaspoon, crushed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil for frying | As required |
Instructions
-
Prepare the oil for frying:
Begin by heating oil in a deep frying pan or wok on medium heat. You need enough oil to submerge the pakodas for an even fry. While the oil is heating, you can start preparing the batter. -
Make the batter:
In a large mixing bowl, add the chickpea flour (besan), rice flour, and red chili powder. Mix them well. Now, add the ginger-garlic paste, crushed fennel seeds, and salt to the flour mixture. Stir everything until combined. -
Add the cashews and mint:
Gently fold in the finely chopped mint leaves and cashews into the flour mixture. Add 1 tablespoon of hot oil to the mix, which helps in giving the pakodas a crisp texture. Mix everything together well. -
Form the pakodas:
Gradually sprinkle water (little by little) and knead the mixture into a soft, slightly thick dough. Make sure the dough is not too watery. Divide the dough into small portions, and roll each portion into small balls or drop small dollops directly into the hot oil. -
Fry the pakodas:
Once the oil is heated to the right temperature (medium-high heat), carefully drop the prepared cashew balls into the oil. Fry in batches, ensuring that the pakodas are not overcrowded in the pan. Stir occasionally so that they cook evenly on all sides. Fry until they turn golden brown and crisp. -
Drain and serve:
Once the pakodas are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a kitchen towel to drain excess oil. -
Serving suggestion:
Serve your crispy and aromatic Kaju Pakodas hot with a side of fresh coriander-mint chutney and masala chai for the perfect evening snack.
Tips for the Perfect Kaju Pakoda
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is medium-hot when frying. If the oil is too hot, the pakodas will burn on the outside but remain uncooked inside. If it’s too cold, they will soak up excess oil and become greasy.
- Consistency of the Batter: The batter should be thick enough to coat the cashews well. If it’s too runny, the pakodas may lose their shape while frying.
- Freshness of Ingredients: Fresh mint adds a burst of flavor, so be sure to use it for an enhanced taste.
- Vegan Option: If you’re looking for a vegan version, simply replace the ginger-garlic paste with ginger and garlic powder or omit it altogether.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Conclusion
Kaju Pakoda is a delightful snack, offering a unique combination of flavors and textures. The richness of cashews complements the crunchy exterior, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion, a festive treat, or just a simple evening snack, these pakodas are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or coffee and savor the deliciousness!
Similar Recipes You May Like
- Chili Cheese Pakoda – A spicy and cheesy alternative to the classic.
- Methi Thepla – A traditional Gujarati snack to pair with chutneys.
- Paneer Pakora – Deep-fried paneer fritters, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
