Introduction to Paneer Pakora:
Paneer pakora, a popular Indian snack, is a delightful dish made from fresh cottage cheese (paneer) coated in a spiced gram flour (besan) batter and deep-fried until crispy and golden. This crispy and savory treat is loved by people of all ages and is often enjoyed with chutneys, sauces, or a cup of tea. With its crunchy exterior and soft, succulent interior, paneer pakoras are a perfect choice for parties, gatherings, or simply as an indulgent evening snack.
Ingredients:
For the paneer pakoras, you will need:
For the batter:
- 200g paneer (cottage cheese), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
- Water, as needed, to make a thick batter
For frying:
- Oil, for deep frying
For garnish:
- Chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
Instructions:
1.In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, asafoetida, and salt.
2.Gradually add water to the dry ingredients and whisk well to form a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3.Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4.Dip each paneer cube into the prepared batter, ensuring it's evenly coated.
5.Gently place the coated paneer cubes into the hot oil, a few at a time. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan.
6.Fry the paneer pakoras until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
7.Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the fried paneer pakoras for a fresh burst of flavor.
Nutritional and Health Benefits:
Paneer pakoras, while delicious, are deep-fried and should be enjoyed in moderation. They provide a good amount of protein from paneer and essential nutrients from the gram flour and spices. However, due to the frying process, they can be high in calories and fats.
Nutritional Chart (approximate values per serving):
(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on portion size and cooking methods.)
- Calories: ~ 250 kcal
- Protein: ~ 12g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~ 12g
- Fiber: ~ 3g
Conclusion:
Paneer pakoras are a delectable Indian snack that combines the rich creaminess of paneer with the crunchiness of the gram flour batter. While they might not be an everyday indulgence due to their deep-fried nature, they can certainly be enjoyed occasionally as a treat. Remember to balance your diet with a variety of nutrients and cooking methods for a well-rounded approach to your culinary journey.
