Introduction:
Paneer Pakora is a popular Indian snack that combines the
rich creaminess of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a crispy and flavorful
coating. This delectable dish is loved by people of all ages and is often
served as a tea-time snack or appetizer during special occasions. In this
article, we will dive into the world of Paneer Pakora, learn how to make it at
home, and address some frequently asked questions to help you create this
mouthwatering treat with ease.
Paneer Pakora Recipe: Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside
Here's a classic recipe to make Paneer Pakora at home:
Ingredients:
- Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) - 250 grams
- Besan (gram flour) - 1 cup
- Rice flour - 2 tablespoons
- Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Red chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Garam masala - 1/2 teaspoon
- Ajwain (carom seeds) - 1/2 teaspoon
- Baking soda - a pinch
- Water - as needed
- Salt - to taste
- Oil - for deep frying
Instructions:
1.
Cut the
Paneer:
·
Cut the
paneer into bite-sized cubes or rectangular pieces, as per your preference.
2.
Prepare the
Batter:
·
In a mixing
bowl, combine besan, rice flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam
masala, ajwain, baking soda, and salt.
·
Gradually
add water and whisk to make a smooth and thick batter. The batter should coat
the back of a spoon without dripping.
3.
Heat the
Oil:
·
Heat
sufficient oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat for frying.
4.
Coat the
Paneer:
·
Dip each
paneer piece into the prepared batter, ensuring it is coated evenly from all
sides.
5.
Fry the
Paneer Pakoras:
·
Carefully
slide the coated paneer pieces into the hot oil.
·
Fry until
the pakoras turn golden brown and crispy.
·
Remove them
from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to absorb
excess oil.
6.
Serve:
·
Serve the
hot and crispy Paneer Pakoras with green chutney or ketchup.
FAQs: Answering Your Queries
Q: Can I use store-bought paneer for Paneer Pakora?
A:
Yes, you can use store-bought paneer or homemade paneer for making Paneer
Pakoras. However, ensure that the paneer is fresh and not too soft to maintain
the shape during frying.
Q: Can I use a different flour for the batter?
A:
Traditionally, besan (gram flour) is used to make the batter for Paneer Pakora.
However, you can experiment with other flours like cornflour or wheat flour for
a variation in texture and taste.
Q: Can I make Paneer Pakora ahead of time and reheat them?
A: While Paneer Pakoras are best enjoyed immediately after frying to
preserve their crispiness, you can reheat them in an oven or an air fryer to
regain some of their crunchiness.
Q: How do I store leftover Paneer Pakora?
A: If you have
any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up
to 2 days. Reheat them before serving for the best taste.
Conclusion:
Paneer Pakora is a delightful and scrumptious snack that
brings together the richness of paneer and the crunch of the batter. It is a
favorite among all age groups and perfect for any occasion, be it a rainy day
or a festive celebration. With this easy-to-follow recipe and answers to
frequently asked questions, you can now make restaurant-style Paneer Pakoras in
the comfort of your home. So, gather the ingredients, get ready to fry, and
indulge in the crispy and heavenly goodness of Paneer Pakoras!