Puffed Lotus Seed Pakoras (Makhana Pakora)
Recipe Overview:
Puffed Lotus Seed Pakoras, also known as Makhana Pakora, is a delightful Indian snack that blends the earthy crunch of roasted lotus seeds (phool makhana) with a spiced, crispy batter. Perfect for evening tea or as a party appetizer, these pakoras offer a unique twist on traditional fried snacks. The crispy, golden fritters are seasoned with a medley of aromatic spices, including cumin, red chili powder, and turmeric, along with the fresh flavors of onions, green chilies, and curry leaves. Best served hot with a cup of chai, these pakoras are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Phool Makhana (Lotus Seeds) | 100 grams (roasted in ghee) |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Onion | 1 (sliced) |
| Green Chilli | 1 (chopped) |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 1 sprig (chopped) |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig (chopped) |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pakora Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients — roasted lotus seeds (phool makhana), gram flour (besan), sliced onion, chopped green chili, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, chopped coriander leaves, and curry leaves. -
Add Water:
Gradually add water, a little at a time, and mix to form a thick batter. The consistency should be such that it holds its shape when dropped into the pan but is not too stiff. Taste the batter and adjust salt or spices to suit your preferences. -
Preheat the Pan:
Heat a Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan (or any similar pan) on medium heat. Lightly oil each cavity of the pan with a few drops of oil to prevent the pakoras from sticking. -
Cook the Pakoras:
Spoon the prepared batter into each cavity of the preheated pan. Cook the pakoras until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. You can add a little extra oil for a crispier texture. -
Repeat with the Remaining Batter:
Continue the same process with the remaining pakora batter, ensuring that each batch is cooked to a perfect crisp. -
Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pakoras from the pan and arrange them on a serving platter. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some chaat masala over the pakoras. You can also serve the pakoras alongside pickled onions for an added tang. -
Enjoy:
Serve these Puffed Lotus Seed Pakoras hot, alongside a cup of steaming chai and your favorite dipping sauce. They make a perfect tea-time snack or a wonderful appetizer at any party.
Chef’s Tips:
- For an even crispier texture, you can add a little extra ghee or oil while cooking the pakoras in the pan.
- If you don’t have a Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan, you can also shallow fry the pakoras in a regular pan, flipping them carefully to ensure they cook evenly.
- Feel free to adjust the spices based on your heat tolerance; add more green chilies or chili powder for an extra kick!
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Nutritious & Light: Lotus seeds (makhana) are a low-calorie, high-protein snack that’s also rich in fiber and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, making this a healthier alternative to traditional pakoras.
- Crispy & Flavorful: The combination of crispy lotus seeds and the flavorful, spice-infused batter offers a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving these pakoras as a snack at home or as a party appetizer, they’re sure to impress your guests with their unique taste and texture.
Indulge in these Puffed Lotus Seed Pakoras the next time you’re in the mood for a savory, crispy treat with a twist!
