Vegetable Dal Pakora Recipe
Embark on a culinary journey with this delightful Vegetable Dal Pakora Recipe, a beloved North Indian snack that perfectly balances the textures of lentils and fresh vegetables, creating a crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the rainy season. The following recipe is not only easy to follow but also offers a wholesome burst of flavors and nutrients, making it a high-protein vegetarian option for all snack lovers.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram) | 1/2 cup |
| Pigeon Pea Split Dal (Moong Dal) | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chilies (finely chopped) | 2 (adjust to taste) |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Cabbage (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Carrot (grated) | 1 |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Fresh Coriander (finely chopped) | 1 sprig |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt (to taste) | As required |
| Oil (for frying) | As required |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 180 |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Instructions
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Soak the Lentils: Begin by soaking the chana dal and moong dal in water for approximately 2 hours. This soaking process is essential as it softens the lentils, ensuring a smoother batter for the pakoras.
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Prepare the Batter: After soaking, drain the water and transfer the lentils to a mixer grinder. Add grated ginger and finely chopped green chilies, along with a little water to facilitate grinding. Blend the mixture until it forms a smooth yet thick paste, ensuring it retains some texture for that perfect crunch.
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Mix in the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, pour the prepared lentil batter. Add the finely chopped cabbage, grated carrot, chopped onion, and coriander. Then, incorporate the lemon juice, cumin powder, chaat masala powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat sufficient oil over medium heat. The oil must be hot enough for frying; you can check this by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
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Fry the Pakoras: Carefully drop tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the pakoras until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a kitchen towel to absorb any excess oil.
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Alternative Cooking Method: If you prefer a healthier alternative, consider using a paniyaram pan. Heat the pan and drizzle a little oil into each cavity. Spoon in the lentil batter and cook over low heat until the pakoras turn golden brown on all sides, turning them carefully with a skewer or fork.
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Serve: Serve your crispy vegetable dal pakoras hot, paired with a refreshing coriander mint chutney and a cup of aromatic garam masala tea. This combination makes for a perfect rainy-day snack, bringing warmth and comfort to any gathering.
Tips for Perfection
- Customizations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies based on your spice preference.
- Storage: These pakoras are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
Indulge in this delightful Vegetable Dal Pakora Recipe that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body, making every bite a fulfilling experience. Enjoy the rich flavors and crispy texture that will surely impress your family and friends alike!
