Paneer Pakoras are delectable fritters made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) coated in a seasoned gram flour batter. Here’s a simple recipe to make Paneer Pakoras:
Ingredients:
- 250 grams paneer, cut into slices
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 2 tablespoons rice flour (for extra crispiness, optional)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1 teaspoon dry mango powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
- Oil for deep frying
- Salt to taste
- Water, as needed
Instructions:
- Prepare the Paneer:
- Cut the paneer into slices as thick as per your preference and set them aside.
- Cut a slit through the centre of paneer slices and add a thin layer of coriander powder, dry mango powder and red chilli powder mixed together in the slit.
- Make the Pakora Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, rice flour (if using), red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, asafoetida (hing), cumin powder, chopped green chilies (if using), grated ginger, chopped coriander leaves, and salt.
- Gradually add water to the dry ingredients to create a thick batter with a coating consistency. Ensure there are no lumps in the batter.
- Coat Paneer and Fry:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Dip the paneer slices into the prepared batter, ensuring they are well coated.
- Fry the Paneer Pakoras:
- Once the oil is hot, gently drop the batter-coated paneer pieces into the hot oil, a few at a time.
- Fry the paneer pakoras until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Fry in batches for even cooking.
- Drain and Serve:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried paneer pakoras and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the crispy and hot paneer pakoras with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup.
These paneer fritters are a crowd-pleaser and make for a fantastic snack or appetizer. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference and enjoy the crispy goodness of these delectable paneer pakoras!
