Crispy Vegetable Pakoras

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying (canola, sunflower, grapeseed)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1 small carrot, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1 serrano pepper, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

10-12 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Beginner-friendly)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add water, stirring until a thick batter forms.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the onion, carrot, green bell pepper, serrano pepper (if using), cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, and cilantro.
3. Add the vegetable mixture to the batter and stir well to combine.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the pakoras on paper towels and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information:

Servings: 8

Calories: 250 per serving

Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 280mg

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fiber: 5g

Sugar: 5g

Protein: 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside
• Spicy and savory, with a balanced blend of heat and spices
• Vegetarian-friendly
• Easy to prepare and customizable with different vegetables
• Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish

User Comments:

• "These pakoras were absolutely delicious! The perfect balance of heat and flavor."
• "I love how crispy they were. They were a huge hit at my party."
• "I made these with extra serrano pepper for some serious heat. They were so good!"
• "These are a great way to get your veggies in. My kids loved them."
• "I served these with a mint-cilantro chutney and they were the perfect complement."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have serrano peppers, you can substitute another spicy pepper, such as jalapeño or habanero. Adjust the amount to taste.
• Be careful not to overcrowd the pan when frying the pakoras. This will lower the oil temperature and make them soggy.
• Serve the pakoras immediately for maximum crispiness.
• To make the pakoras ahead of time, fry them and then cool them completely. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes before serving.
• For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.