Makhana Pakora Recipe – Puffed Lotus Seed Pakoras
Makhana Pakora is a delicious, crispy snack made with puffed lotus seeds (makhana), which are paired with traditional Indian spices and deep-fried to perfection. This savory snack is easy to make and is a perfect accompaniment for tea time or as a party starter. The mild flavor of makhana combined with aromatic spices creates a perfect balance of taste and texture.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Makhana (Puffed Lotus Seeds) | 100 gm |
| Gram flour (Besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Green chili | 1, chopped |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh coriander leaves | 1 sprig, chopped |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig, chopped |
| Oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~3 gm |
| Carbohydrates | ~14 gm |
| Fat | ~6 gm |
| Fiber | ~2 gm |
| Sodium | ~200 mg |
| Vitamin C | ~10 mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Makhana
Begin by lightly roasting the puffed lotus seeds (makhana) in ghee (clarified butter). Crush them into smaller pieces once they have cooled down. Set these aside. -
-
Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, add the crushed makhana, gram flour (besan), finely chopped onion, chopped green chili, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, fresh coriander, and curry leaves. Mix everything thoroughly. -
Make the Pakora Batter
Gradually add water to the mixture, little by little, to form a thick batter. The consistency should be such that the batter holds its shape when dropped from a spoon but is still spreadable. -
Heat the Paniyaram Pan
Now, heat a paniyaram (or a mini pancake) pan on medium heat. Add a little oil to each cavity of the pan. -
Cook the Pakoras
Using a spoon, drop small portions of the pakora batter into each cavity. Cook the pakoras on one side until they turn crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Once one side is cooked, flip them gently and cook on the other side until crispy and evenly browned. -
Serve
Once the pakoras are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle chaat masala on top for an added zing. -
Pair and Serve
Serve these crispy, flavorful Makhana Pakoras hot with pickled onions, a refreshing coriander-mint chutney, and a cup of masala tea for an ideal evening snack. You can also enjoy them with your favorite dips or sauces.
Tips for Perfect Makhana Pakora
- Ghee Roasting: Roasting the makhana in ghee gives the pakoras a richer flavor, but you can also use regular oil if you prefer a lighter version.
- Spice Adjustments: The spices in this recipe are adjustable. If you like a spicier pakora, you can increase the amount of green chili or red chili powder. For a milder version, reduce the chili content.
- Texture: If you want your pakoras extra crispy, you can add a tablespoon of rice flour to the batter.
- Oil Usage: The paniyaram pan requires less oil for frying, making this a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
Why You’ll Love Makhana Pakoras
Makhana Pakora is not just a healthy alternative to traditional deep-fried snacks, but it also offers a unique crunch from the makhana, making each bite interesting and satisfying. The addition of curry leaves and coriander provides a lovely aroma, while the spices bring out the traditional flavors of Indian street food. It’s an easy and quick recipe, perfect for those who want a healthy snack without compromising on taste.
These Makhana Pakoras are ideal for serving at your next gathering or for an evening snack paired with hot tea. They are also perfect for kids, as makhana is light and nutritious, making it an excellent option for a wholesome snack.
So, next time you’re craving a crispy, flavorful treat, whip up these Makhana Pakoras and enjoy the crunchy goodness with friends and family!
