Potato pakoras, also known as aloo pakoras or batata bhajis, are a popular Indian snack made by deep-frying spiced potato slices in a gram flour (besan) batter. A simple step-by-step recipe for making potato pakoras:
Ingredients:
For Potato Slices:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
For Besan Batter:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1/4 cup rice flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- Salt to taste
- Water (as needed to make a thick batter)
Other Ingredients:
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare Potato Slices:
- Thinly slice the peeled potatoes.
- In a bowl, toss the potato slices with salt, red chili powder, and turmeric powder. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
2. Make Besan Batter:
- In a separate bowl, combine gram flour, rice flour (if using), red chili powder, turmeric powder, carom seeds, and salt.
- Gradually add water to form a thick and smooth batter. Ensure there are no lumps.
3. Heat Oil:
- Heat enough oil in a deep pan for deep frying. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
4. Dip and Fry:
- Dip each potato slice into the besan batter, ensuring it is well coated.
- Carefully drop the coated potato slice into the hot oil.
5. Deep Fry:
- Fry the pakoras until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip them occasionally for even frying.
6. Drain and Serve:
- Once the potato pakoras are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. Repeat:
- Repeat the process with the remaining potato slices.
8. Serve:
- Serve the potato pakoras hot with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup.
Enjoy your homemade crispy and delicious potato pakoras as a snack or appetizer! Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.