Healthy Kabuli Chana Pakora Recipe – A Wholesome North Indian Snack
Looking for a healthier take on your favorite deep-fried snack? Kabuli Chana Pakora is an innovative twist on the traditional pakoras, using the goodness of Kabuli Chana (white chickpeas) and a few fresh ingredients. Instead of deep-frying, we’ve opted for a much lighter method that ensures the pakoras are crispy, golden, and utterly delicious, with far less oil. Perfect as a snack for your tea-time, as a light appetizer, or an after-school treat for the kids, this recipe is both nutritious and mouthwatering. Let’s dive into how you can make this easy, guilt-free snack!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kabuli Chana (White Chickpeas) | 1 cup (soaked for 8 hours) |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Green Chilli | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Garlic | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by preparing all the ingredients for the Kabuli Chana Pakora. Soak the Kabuli Chana (white chickpeas) for at least 8 hours or overnight. Once soaked, drain the water completely and set aside.
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Pulse the Chickpeas: Take the soaked and drained Kabuli Chana and pulse it in a mixer grinder. The goal is to achieve a coarse mixture, not a smooth paste. The texture should be slightly grainy, allowing the pakoras to hold together while cooking. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl.
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Mix in the Veggies and Spices: To the chickpea mixture, add the chopped onion, green chili, garlic, fresh coriander, and mint leaves. Stir in the red chili powder, fennel seeds, and salt. Mix everything well to ensure the spices and herbs are evenly distributed.
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Prepare the Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan: Heat a Kuzhi Paniyaram pan (a type of Indian cookware used for making small, round fritters) over medium heat. Add about 1/4 teaspoon of oil into each cavity of the pan. The oil will ensure the pakoras cook evenly and develop a crispy, golden exterior.
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Cook the Pakoras: Using a spoon, take a tablespoon of the prepared Kabuli Chana mixture and carefully drop it into each cavity of the hot pan. Let the pakoras cook on medium-high heat for about 3 minutes, or until the bottom side turns golden brown and crisp. Turn each pakora carefully and allow the other side to cook for an additional 3 minutes, until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
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Check for Crispness: Ensure that the pakoras are cooked through by pressing lightly on one with a spoon. The outer layer should be crunchy, and the inside should be cooked perfectly. The pakoras should not be soft or doughy in the center.
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Drain and Serve: Once the pakoras are ready, remove them from the pan and drain them on a paper towel to remove any excess oil. Serve the hot, crispy Kabuli Chana Pakoras immediately.
Tips for Perfect Kabuli Chana Pakora:
- Consistency: Be sure not to grind the chickpeas into a fine paste. The coarse texture is essential for holding the pakoras together while cooking.
- Oil Control: Use minimal oil to cook the pakoras. The Kuzhi Paniyaram pan allows for even cooking with very little oil, resulting in a healthier snack.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients such as cumin, garam masala, or a pinch of hing (asafoetida) for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these healthy Kabuli Chana Pakoras as an accompaniment to a cup of ginger cardamom chai or with a refreshing green chutney (coriander-mint chutney) or tangy tamarind chutney. They make a great snack for your high-tea gatherings or as an after-school treat for the kids. With their crispy exterior and flavorful, protein-packed interior, these pakoras are sure to become a favorite in your household!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 135 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 230mg |
| Calcium | 25mg |
Total Time:
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 5 hours (includes soaking) |
| Cooking | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 5 hours 30 minutes |
Servings: 6
Enjoy your guilt-free, crispy, and nutritious Kabuli Chana Pakoras with family and friends, knowing that you’re indulging in a snack that’s both delicious and packed with protein and fiber. Whether as a quick snack or a party appetizer, this dish promises to satisfy your cravings without compromising on health.
