Spinach Pakora (Fritters)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 40-45 pieces
Description
Spinach Pakoras, or fritters, are a beloved Indian snack enjoyed at any time of day, especially comforting during cold, rainy weather. These crispy treats are made from a batter of gram flour and packed with spinach, potatoes, and spices. They can be prepared ahead and frozen, then reheated in the oven for a quick and satisfying snack. This recipe yields 40-45 pieces and is adapted from Kusum’s book Recipes with a Spice – Indian Cuisine for Balanced Nutrition.
Ingredients
- 3 cups gram flour
- 1/2 cup spinach, finely chopped
- 10 small onions, finely chopped
- 2 potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 2 green chili peppers, finely chopped
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp mango powder (amchur)
- 1 1/2 tbsp pomegranate seeds
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Batter:
- Sift the gram flour into a mixing bowl.
- Add spinach, onions, mashed potatoes, green chili peppers, coriander powder, garam masala, mango powder, pomegranate seeds, and red chili powder.
- Mix well to combine into a smooth and thick batter. Add a little water if needed to achieve the right consistency. Cover and let it stand for 30 minutes.
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Prepare for Frying:
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
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Frying the Pakoras:
- When the oil is hot, mix in salt to the batter.
- Take a heaped teaspoon of the batter and carefully drop it into the hot oil using another spoon.
- Fry the pakoras in batches, turning occasionally with a slotted spatula, until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a consistent frying temperature.
- Once fried, remove the pakoras and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Serve:
- Serve the spinach pakoras hot with your favorite chutney.
Variations
- For extra crispness, add 1 cup of corn kernels to the batter.
- To ensure softness, optionally add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to the batter.
These Spinach Pakoras are a delightful snack that pairs perfectly with tea or as an appetizer for any occasion. Enjoy the crispy texture and flavorful blend of spices in every bite!
