A typical Pakora is simply a slice of potato or a bunch of onions coated in a mildly spiced, turmeric coloured batter, and then deep fried. Variations include using chunks of broccoli, cauliflower floret, or even slices of aubergine!
Usually small, the crisply fried Pakoras are most often served as appetizers or snacks, beside Ramadan.
What makes this little Pakora so special?
A Yes Pakistan Staff member embarked upon the mission to solve this mystery. After interviewing several Pakistani cooks and women, the following 7 reasons seem to emerge as the major factors contributing to Pakora’s fame:
1- It takes relatively less time to prepare;
2- Its ingredients are few and simple, available at any local market;
3- It is very economical. It is probably one of the most affordable fried items you can have at home;
4- It is small in size and very light, compared to other things usually fried in oil, such as Samosas, Vegie Rolls, etc. This feature allows great quantities of Pakoras to be consumed;
5- The fact that Pakoras can only be cooked and served fresh makes it even more attractive. People like eating fresh and crispy food at Iftar time;
6- No Pakistani meal could be complete without spices and onions! Pakora allows people to have both of these requirements fulfilled;
7- Even though Pakoras are usually eaten hot and fresh, they still taste good and retain their crispiness if eaten a couple of hours after being fried, unlike other fritters.
“Pakora is not only our favourite item in Ramadan. Traditionally, in Pakistan the season of rain or spring is celebrated by serving deep-fried potato and onion pakoras!” stated an enthusiastic elderly woman.
Pakora Recipe:
> Preparation time: approx. 45 minutes
> For 6-8 people
- 1 cup chickpea flour (Besan)
- 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 finely chopped green chillies,
- 1 tablespoon coriander, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- oil for frying
- An assortment of vegetables: Onions, cut into rings or sliced, potato ( add cumin seeds and Anar dana if u want)
