Pakoras (sometimes referred to as bhajis) are traditionally eaten as a starter or snack and are a key ingredient in Curree where they absorb a spicy yoghurt-based masala. I usually use potatoes when I make pakoras but enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and this one is a very popular choice. You can use potatoes, cauliflower, or any other vegetable to make vegan pakoras and use Alpro instead of yoghurt.
I keep my recipe simple and not too spicy so the pakoras can be enjoyed by all. If you want more heat, add more chilli to your accompanying chutney.
SPINACH AND PANEER PAKORAS (vegetarian)
PREP 15 MIN | COOK 10 MIN
   INGREDIENTS | METHOD |
Pakoras (makes approx 30) 1 250g block paneer 250g baby spinach 2 medium onions 12 heaped tbsp gram flour 1 ½ tsp salt 1tsp garam masala 1 tbsp fresh green chillies 100g fresh coriander Oil for deep frying
Chutney Bunch of fresh coriander 3 tbsp fresh green chillies 1 tsp salt Natural yoghurt | Finely dice the onion into a bowl. Dice the paneer into small pieces and shred the spinach. Put the gram flour into a mixing bowl and add the salt, garam masala, onion, paneer, and spinach. Add the finely chopped coriander, and green chillies (to your taste) and mix well. Gradually add water to form a firm mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil and fry on a medium heat for approximately 5 minutes or until the pakoras are lightly brown. Drain on kitchen paper and serve with yogurt chutney. To make the chutney, put the coriander, chillies, salt, and 2 tbsp yoghurt into a blender and blitz until smooth. Place into a bowl and add more yoghurt depending on how hot you want it, mixing well to combine. Note: Only add the water when you are ready to fry the pakoras as if the mixture is left, it will become runny. If this happens, add a little more gram flour so you can shape the pakoras into balls before frying. Tip: before mixing in the rest of the yoghurt, put a few tablespoons of the concentrate into a tub and freeze. You can defrost and add more yoghurt whenever you need some chutney. |
FAQs
What is gram flour?
It’s also known as chickpea flour – is made of finely ground dried chickpeas.
Does gram flour contain gluten?
No, gram flour is gluten-free.
What happens if my mixture is too runny?
Add some more gram flour until you can shape into balls.
Do I have to form the mixture with my hands?
No – if you prefer not to, use two tablespoons or a small ice cream scoop.
Can I cook pakoras in the air fryer?
Yes, you can and it’s a healthier option, but there will be a slight difference in taste.
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