Pakodi Koora Recipe (Indian Style Pakodi Curry)
Pakodi Koora, a traditional Indian dish, brings together crispy pakodis (fritters) and a flavorful, spicy curry. This recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner and is often served with rice or Lacha Paratha. The pakodis, made from a mixture of vegetables, gram flour, and rice flour, are fried to a golden crisp before being immersed in a rich, aromatic curry. The curry itself is packed with the goodness of roasted sesame and peanuts, which add a lovely texture and depth of flavor to the dish. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or just craving comfort food, Pakodi Koora is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Pakodi Koora:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brinjal (Eggplant) – chopped | 1/3 cup | You can use any tender eggplant variety |
| Cauliflower – chopped | 1/3 cup | Chop into small florets |
| Potato – chopped | 1/3 cup | Peel and chop into small cubes |
| Onion – finely chopped | 1/2 onion | Adds sweetness and texture |
| Onion – thinly sliced | 1/2 onion | Adds crunch and flavor in the curry |
| Sesame seeds (white) | 2 tbsp | Adds nuttiness to the fritters |
| Peanuts | 2 tbsp | Roasted and ground for the curry paste |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp | Adjust to your spice preference |
| Coriander powder | 1 tbsp | Adds depth of flavor |
| Coriander seeds | 1/2 tsp | Roasted and ground for added aroma |
| Curry leaves | As needed | Essential for authentic flavor |
| Ginger garlic paste | 2 tsp | For a warm, aromatic base |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp | Adds color and subtle earthiness |
| Gram flour (Besan) | 1/2 cup | The main ingredient for the pakodis |
| Rice flour | 2 tbsp | Helps to make the pakodis extra crispy |
| Green chilies – chopped | 3 | Adds a touch of heat |
| Fresh coriander – chopped | 3 sprigs | For garnish |
| Salt | As per taste | To taste |
| Oil (for frying) | As needed | For frying the pakodis and cooking the curry |
| Water | As needed | For making the batter and curry consistency |
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Serving Size:
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Dinner
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Pakodi Koora:
Step 1: Prepare the Pakodis (Fritters)
- Heat oil in a pan for frying the pakodis.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped potatoes, cauliflower, brinjal, finely chopped onion, gram flour (besan), rice flour, curry leaves, chopped coriander, sesame seeds, red chili powder, and salt.
- Add a little water to the mixture and mix everything together to form a thick batter. Ensure that the vegetables are well-coated.
- Heat oil in a pan. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil and fry them in batches.
- Fry the pakodis until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base
6. In the same pan, add a little more oil. Heat it and then add the curry leaves, sliced onions, salt, and ginger-garlic paste.
7. Sauté the onions until they soften and turn golden.
8. Add the roasted sesame seeds and peanuts to the pan. Stir and cook for a minute to incorporate the flavors.
9. Pour the sesame and peanut mixture into a blender or mixer grinder. Add a little water and blend it into a smooth paste. Set this aside.
Step 3: Make the Curry
10. In the same pan, add some more oil if necessary. Once hot, add the sesame and peanut paste.
11. Stir continuously, adding 3/4 cup water to the mixture to form a smooth curry consistency.
12. After a minute, add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder to the curry. Mix well.
13. Now, carefully add the fried pakodis into the curry, stirring gently to coat them with the sauce. Cook for 3-5 minutes to allow the pakodis to soak up the flavors of the curry.
14. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve.
Step 4: Serving Suggestions
- Pakodi Koora can be served with steamed rice or Lacha Paratha for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for Making Perfect Pakodi Koora:
- Consistency of Batter: Ensure that the pakodi batter is thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the oil. If it is too runny, the pakodis may not fry properly.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature. If it’s too hot, the pakodis will burn; if it’s not hot enough, they will soak up too much oil and become greasy.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of red chili powder and green chilies.
- Make Ahead: The curry can be prepared ahead of time, and the pakodis can be fried fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Conclusion
Pakodi Koora is a delicious, wholesome dish that captures the essence of Indian flavors in every bite. The crispy pakodis paired with the rich, nutty curry are a perfect combination for a comforting meal. Whether enjoyed with a side of fragrant rice or flaky parathas, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy the delightful crunch and the mouthwatering spices of Pakodi Koora with your loved ones!
