Karhi Pakora Recipe
Karhi Pakora is a delicious yogurt-based curry with crispy fritters, a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Here’s a recipe to try:
Ingredients:
For the Kadhi (Yogurt Sauce):
- 1 ½ cups yogurt (full-fat or 2% works)
- ½ cup besan (gram flour)
- 3 tbsp neutral oil
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- ½ tsp fenugreek seeds (methi dana)
- ¼ tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
- 2 cloves garlic (or 1 tsp garlic paste)
- ¾ tsp red chili powder
- ¾ tsp cumin powder
- ¾ tsp coriander powder
- ¾ tsp turmeric powder
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 3 green chilies (whole)
- 5 cups water (adjust according to desired consistency)
For the Pakora (Fritters):
- 1 ½ cups besan (gram flour)
- ¾-1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- â…“ tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 diced onion (optional)
- 2 diced green chilies
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions:
- Make the
In a bowl, combine gram flour, salt, chili flakes (if using), chili powder, coriander powder, cumin seeds, carom seeds, chopped onion (if using), green chilies, and baking powder. Gradually add water to form a thick batter, similar to pancake batter consistency. - Whisk Yogurt and Besan:
In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt and gram flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot with the spices. - Prepare the Kadhi:
In a pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add curry leaves, fenugreek seeds, and carom seeds. Let them splutter for a few seconds. Add garlic and saute until fragrant. - Simmer the Kadhi:
Add red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer for 10 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent burning. - Fry the Pakoras:
Heat oil in a separate pan for deep frying. Once hot, dip a spoon or your fingers in water and scoop portions of the pakora batter. Gently slide them into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels. - Assemble the Karhi Pakora:
Once the kadhi has simmered for 10 minutes, add water to achieve your desired consistency. Add the fried pakoras to the kadhi and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. - Tadka (Optional):
In a small pan, heat oil. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped chilies and fry for a few seconds. Pour this tadka over the karhi pakora. - Serve:
Enjoy karhi pakora hot with steamed rice or roti.
Tips:
- You can adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of oil.
- Some people prefer to whisk the yogurt mixture with water before adding it to the pot. This creates a thinner kadhi.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the yogurt.
Conclusion
Karhi Pakora is delightful and flavorful dish that combines tanginess of yogurt based curry with crispy texture of fritters. It’s a perfect comfort food and the table format makes it easy to follow recipe. With simple ingredients and a few steps you can create this delicious meal at home. Enjoy it with steamed rice or roti for satisfying and heartwarming experience.