When it comes to Indian street food, gram flour fritters,
also known as Pakoras or Bhajiyas, are an all-time favorite.
These golden, crispy delights are made from chickpea flour (besan) and flavored
with aromatic spices, making them perfect for tea-time snacks or rainy-day
treats. Paired with tangy and spicy chili sauce, they become an irresistible
indulgence for food lovers.
Ingredients for Gram Flour Fritters
For the fritters:
- 1
cup gram flour (besan)
- 1
small onion (thinly sliced)
- 1
green chili (finely chopped)
- ½
tsp turmeric powder
- ½
tsp red chili powder
- 1
tsp cumin seeds
- Salt
to taste
- Water
(as needed)
- Oil
for deep frying
For the chili sauce:
- 3
tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1
tbsp red chili sauce
- ½
tsp vinegar
- ½
tsp sugar (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, add gram flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder,
cumin seeds, chopped onion, and salt. Slowly add water while stirring until you
get a thick, smooth batter. The batter should coat the back of a spoon without
dripping too quickly.
2. Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan and heat it over medium flame.
3. Fry the Fritters
Using a spoon or your hands, drop small portions of batter into the hot oil.
Fry until the fritters turn golden brown and crisp on all sides. Remove and
drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Chili Sauce
In a small bowl, mix tomato ketchup, chili sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Stir well
to create a tangy-spicy dip.
5. Serve Hot
Place the crispy fritters on a serving plate, garnish with coriander leaves,
and serve with the freshly prepared chili sauce.
Tips for Perfect Fritters
- Ensure
the oil is medium hot; too hot will burn the outside while keeping the
inside raw.
- Add
a pinch of baking soda to the batter for extra fluffiness.
- You
can also add chopped spinach, potato slices, or cauliflower for variety.
Why This Recipe is Loved
These fritters are crunchy on the outside and soft on the
inside, with a burst of Indian spices in every bite. The pairing with spicy
chili sauce gives it an exciting flavor kick, making it a hit for both kids and
adults. Whether for monsoon evenings, family gatherings, or festive
celebrations, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
