Appetizer > India > Vegetarian Appetizers

Banana Flower Pakoras Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chopped banana flower
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1/4 cup rice flour
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Oil for frying

Special equipment needed:
- Deep frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Slotted spoon

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Clean and chop the banana flower into small pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, rice flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt.
3. Add water gradually to the flour mixture and whisk until a smooth batter is formed.
4. Add the chopped banana flower to the batter and mix well.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pakoras from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
8. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or sauce.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for frying
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 20 pakoras

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 80 per serving
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chickpea flour can be used instead of gram flour.
- Corn flour can be used instead of rice flour.
- Any other vegetable can be used instead of banana flower.

Variations:
- Add chopped onions and green chilies to the batter for extra flavor.
- Add grated cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to clean the banana flower thoroughly before chopping.
- The batter should be of a thick consistency to coat the banana flower pieces well.
- Fry the pakoras in small batches to ensure even cooking.

Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover pakoras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pakoras in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pakoras on a platter with a side of chutney or sauce.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint leaves.

Pairings:
- Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of salad or raita.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the batter is too thin, add more flour to thicken it.
- If the pakoras are not crispy, increase the heat of the oil and fry them for a longer time.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to clean the banana flower thoroughly before using it in the recipe.
- Use fresh oil for frying to avoid any health hazards.

Food history:
- Pakoras are a popular snack in India and are made with a variety of vegetables and spices.

Flavor profiles:
- The banana flower pakoras have a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior with a hint of spice.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pakoras as an appetizer or snack.

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Region: Indian

Taste: Crispy, Spicy, Tangy, Savory