Introduction

Bread pakora, also known as bread fritters, is a popular Indian snack that combines the goodness of bread with a flavorful chickpea batter. It’s a delightful dish loved by people of all ages. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of making delicious bread pakoras, and you’ll be surprised how easy and quick it is to prepare this savory treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make scrumptious bread pakoras, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Sliced bread (white or brown) – 8 to 10 slices
• Chickpea flour (besan) – 1 cup
• Rice flour – 2 tablespoons
• Red chili powder – 1/2 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder – 1/4 teaspoon
• Garam masala – 1/2 teaspoon
• Carom seeds (ajwain) – 1/2 teaspoon
• Baking soda – 1/4 teaspoon
• Salt – as per taste
• Water – 3/4 cup (approximately)
• Vegetable oil – for deep frying
• Green chutney or tamarind chutney – for serving

Preparing the Chickpea Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour, rice flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, carom seeds, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add water while stirring the mixture to form a smooth and thick batter. Ensure there are no lumps. The batter should coat the back of a spoon without dripping.

Assembling the Bread Pakoras

1. Take two slices of bread and spread green chutney or tamarind chutney on one slice.
2. Place the other slice on top to make a sandwich.
3. Cut the sandwich diagonally into two triangles or leave it whole if you prefer.
4. Repeat the process with the remaining bread slices.

Deep Frying the Pakoras

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
2. Dip each assembled bread slice into the chickpea batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides.
3. Gently drop the coated bread slices into the hot oil, 2-3 at a time.
4. Fry until the pakoras turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pakoras and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving and Enjoying

Bread pakoras taste best when served hot and crispy. Enjoy them with a side of mint chutney or tamarind chutney. They are a perfect tea-time snack or a delightful appetizer for gatherings and parties.

Tips for Perfect Bread Pakoras

• Make sure the chickpea batter is of the right consistency; it should neither be too thick nor too runny.
• Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the batter for enhanced flavor.
• You can add finely chopped onions, green chilies, or grated paneer to the chutney before assembling the pakoras for added taste and texture.

Variations to Try

Bread pakoras are versatile, and you can experiment with various fillings and coatings. Some exciting variations to try include:

1. Cheese Bread Pakora: Add a slice of cheese between the bread slices for a gooey and cheesy surprise.
2. Aloo Bread Pakora: Stuff the bread slices with spicy mashed potatoes before dipping them in the batter.
3. Palak Bread Pakora: Spread a layer of spinach puree on the bread for a nutritious twist.

Healthier Alternatives

While bread pakoras are undeniably delicious, they are deep-fried and can be high in calories. Here are some healthier alternatives:

1. Air Fryer Bread Pakoras: Instead of deep-frying, use an air fryer to get the same crispiness with less oil.
2. Multigrain Bread: Opt for multigrain bread instead of white bread for added nutritional value.
3. Baked Bread Pakoras: Bake the assembled pakoras in the oven until they turn crispy.

ReadMore

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of bread for making bread pakoras? Yes, you can use either white or brown bread, and even whole wheat bread works well.
2. Can I prepare the batter in advance? It’s better to prepare the batter fresh for the best results. However, you can store the dry ingredients together and add water just before frying.
3. How long do the pakoras stay crispy? For the best taste and texture, consume the pakoras immediately after frying.
4. Are bread pakoras vegan? Yes, bread pakoras are usually vegan, but make sure the chutney you use is also vegan-friendly.
5. Can I freeze the assembled bread pakoras? It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled pakoras as they may become soggy when thawed.

Conclusion

Bread pakoras are a delightful treat that brings back cherished memories of monsoons and cozy evenings. This easy-to-make snack is sure to impress your family and friends. So, why wait? Try making these lip-smacking bread pakoras and savor the burst of flavors with every bite!