Bread Pakora Recipe: Quick & Easy Indian Snack

by Alex Braham 47 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a super delicious and incredibly easy snack recipe that's a total crowd-pleaser: Bread Pakora! If you're craving something crispy, savory, and satisfying, you've come to the right place. Bread pakora is a popular Indian street food, perfect for a quick breakfast, a tea-time snack, or even a light meal. Let's get started and learn how to make this yummy treat at home!

What is Bread Pakora?

Before we jump into the recipe, let's quickly understand what bread pakora is. Bread pakora is essentially bread slices dipped in a spiced batter made of gram flour (besan) and then deep-fried until golden and crispy. There are a couple of variations – some recipes call for a filling of mashed potatoes and spices, while others keep it simple with just the bread and batter. Today, we'll explore both options to cater to your taste preferences.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make bread pakora, gather these ingredients:

For the Plain Bread Pakora:

  • Bread slices: 6-8 (white or brown, as per your preference)
  • Gram flour (besan): 1 cup
  • Rice flour: 2 tablespoons (for extra crispiness)
  • Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
  • Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Garam masala: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Ginger-garlic paste: 1 teaspoon
  • Green chilies: 1-2, finely chopped (optional)
  • Coriander leaves: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
  • Salt: To taste
  • Water: As needed to make the batter
  • Oil: For deep frying

For the Stuffed Bread Pakora:

  • Boiled potatoes: 2-3 medium-sized
  • Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
  • Green chilies: 1-2, finely chopped
  • Ginger: 1/2 inch, grated
  • Coriander leaves: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
  • Turmeric powder: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Red chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garam masala: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Amchur (dry mango powder): 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: To taste

Making the Batter

The batter is the heart of bread pakora. A well-made batter ensures the pakoras are crispy and evenly coated. Here’s how to get it right:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add gram flour (besan), rice flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, green chilies (if using), coriander leaves, and salt.
  2. Add Water Gradually: Slowly add water while mixing continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be smooth and of a medium consistency – not too thick, not too runny. It should be able to coat the bread slices evenly.
  3. Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the water properly, resulting in a better texture.

Preparing the Potato Filling (for Stuffed Bread Pakora)

If you're opting for the stuffed version, the potato filling needs to be flavorful and well-mashed. Here’s how to prepare it:

  1. Mash the Potatoes: In a bowl, mash the boiled potatoes until smooth. Make sure there are no large lumps.
  2. Add the Spices: Add the chopped onion, green chilies, grated ginger, coriander leaves, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, amchur, and salt. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
  3. Check the Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. The filling should be slightly tangy and spicy.

Assembling the Bread Pakoras

Now comes the fun part – assembling the bread pakoras! Whether you're making the plain or stuffed version, the process is quite simple.

For Plain Bread Pakora:

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying.
  2. Dip the Bread: Dip each bread slice into the batter, ensuring it's coated evenly on both sides. Lift the slice and let any excess batter drip off.
  3. Fry the Pakoras: Gently slide the batter-coated bread slices into the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. Remove and Drain: Once the pakoras are golden brown, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  5. Cut and Serve: Cut each pakora into halves or triangles and serve hot with your favorite chutney or sauce.

For Stuffed Bread Pakora:

  1. Spread the Filling: Take two bread slices and spread a generous layer of the potato filling on one slice. Cover it with the other bread slice, making a sandwich.
  2. Cut the Sandwich: Cut the bread sandwich diagonally into two triangles.
  3. Dip in Batter: Dip each triangle into the batter, ensuring it's coated evenly on all sides. Lift and let the excess batter drip off.
  4. Fry the Pakoras: Gently slide the batter-coated bread triangles into the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Remove and Drain: Once the pakoras are golden brown, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  6. Serve Hot: Serve the stuffed bread pakoras hot with your favorite chutney or sauce.

Tips for Perfect Bread Pakoras

  • Batter Consistency: The consistency of the batter is crucial. If it's too thick, the pakoras will be heavy and not cook properly. If it's too thin, the batter won't coat the bread evenly.
  • Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is not hot enough, the pakoras will absorb too much oil and become soggy. If it's too hot, they will brown too quickly on the outside and remain uncooked inside.
  • Rice Flour: Adding rice flour to the batter makes the pakoras extra crispy. Don't skip this step if you want that perfect crunch.
  • Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the pakoras in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy pakoras.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially fresh coriander leaves and green chilies, enhances the flavor of the pakoras.

Serving Suggestions

Bread pakoras are best served hot and fresh. Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • With Chutney: Serve them with mint-coriander chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup.
  • With Tea or Coffee: They make a perfect accompaniment to your evening tea or coffee.
  • As a Snack: Serve them as a snack at parties or gatherings.
  • As a Light Meal: Pair them with a side of salad or yogurt for a light and satisfying meal.

Variations

  • Paneer Stuffed Bread Pakora: Replace the potato filling with a mixture of crumbled paneer (Indian cheese), spices, and herbs.
  • Vegetable Stuffed Bread Pakora: Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and capsicum to the potato filling.
  • Sweet Bread Pakora: Dip the bread slices in a sweet batter made with sugar and cardamom powder for a sweet treat.

Healthier Options

If you're health-conscious, here are a few ways to make bread pakoras healthier:

  • Air Fry: Instead of deep-frying, air fry the pakoras. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Use Whole Wheat Bread: Opt for whole wheat bread instead of white bread for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Reduce Oil: Use a non-stick pan and shallow fry the pakoras instead of deep-frying.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a super easy and delicious bread pakora recipe that you can whip up in no time! Whether you prefer the plain version or the stuffed one, these crispy delights are sure to be a hit with everyone. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this classic Indian snack. Happy cooking, and I’ll catch you in the next recipe! Don't forget to share your creations and let me know how they turned out. Enjoy!