Gluten Free Vegetable Pakora

This gluten-free vegetable pakora is a delicious, tempura-style fritter made with various vegetables, herbs, and spices, all coated in a light, crispy batter. It’s also suitable for a plant-based diet. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a tasty side dish, this gluten-free pakora is absolutely delicious!”

Crispy Gluten-Free Vegetable Pakora

A vegetable pakora is a popular snack in India and Pakistan, typically served with chutney. The fritters are coated in a light batter made from chickpea flour (also known as gram flour, besan, or garbanzo bean flour) and seasoned with aromatic spices. Pakoras are deep-fried to achieve a crispy, golden coating that perfectly complements the tender vegetables inside.

Choosing the Best Vegetables for Pakoras

You can use a variety of vegetables in pakora recipes, but some work better than others. For the best results, choose vegetables that are firm and not too watery. Great options include cabbage, French beans, onions, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli. You can also use spinach or other leafy greens, but be sure to chop them finely to avoid making the pakoras too wet.

Is vegetable pakora gluten free?

Yes, pakora is gluten free because the batter is typically made with chickpea and/or rice flour. You can also replace the rice flour with a starch such as tapioca or arrowroot to keep it grain free.

Choosing the Best Oil for Frying Gluten-Free Vegetable Pakoras

• Smoke Point: The smoke point is the temperature at which the oil begins to break down and produce smoke. For frying, choose oils with a high smoke point to avoid burning.
• Flavor: Some oils have a neutral flavor, while others may impart a distinct taste to your pakoras. Consider whether you want the oil to influence the flavor of your dish.

Recommended Oils:

Peanut oil: High smoke point and neutral flavor, ideal for frying.

Canola oil: Another great option with a high smoke point and mild taste.

Grapeseed oil: Neutral flavor and high smoke point, perfect for crispy pakoras.

Fat Type:

 Monounsaturated fats: Olive oil is a good choice, but it has a lower smoke point, so it’s better for moderate heat.

Polyunsaturated fats: Vegetable or sunflower oil are higher in polyunsaturated fats and work well for high-heat frying.

Frying Tips: Heat the oil slowly to avoid it smoking or breaking down.

Can I make pakora without deep frying?

Yes, you can! While the fritters won’t have the same crispy coating as when they’re deep-fried, you can still achieve a delicious result by baking or using an air fryer for a healthier alternative.

To bake pakora:

Preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop small portions of the batter onto the prepared sheet, spacing them out evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pakoras are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

3 favorite dips to serve with pakora

1. Coriander and Mint Chutney: This refreshing chutney is made with fresh cilantro, mint, green chili, ginger, and lemon juice. It’s the perfect dipping sauce for pakora and is our favorite.

2. Tamarind Chutney: This sweet and tangy chutney is a combination of tamarind paste, jaggery, and spices like red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. It’s a delicious dip for pakora!

3. Mango Salsa: This fruity gluten-free salsa is all about fresh mangoes, tomatoes, onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. It’s a wonderfully flavorful dip for pakora!

Ways to Enjoy Pakora

There are countless ways to enjoy pakora, and the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Serve fresh and warm for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as chutney, mint yogurt, or gluten-free tamarind sauce.
• Make it a heartier meal by serving pakora over a bed of rice or quinoa, drizzled with your favorite sauce.
• Enjoy with a refreshing salad for a light, balanced meal.
• Wrap it up: Use pakora in gluten-free wraps with a side of dipping sauce for a fun and flavorful twist.

Storing Pakora

To store your pakora, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat and restore their crispiness, place the fritters on a wire rack and heat them in a low oven or air fryer until crispy and warmed through.

Takeaway

Gluten-free vegetable pakora is delicious, packed with flavor and healthy. This Indian dish is both flavorful and nutritious. So whether you are looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, gluten free vegetable pakora will not disappoint.

Love Indian cuisine? Explore our collection of gluten free Indian recipes and get inspired for your next flavorful meal with Indian spices.