Bread Pakora is a beloved fried snack from India that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food. Made from slices of bread dipped in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried to golden perfection, this dish has become a staple in North Indian households and is widely enjoyed as street food. The delightful crunch of the outer layer combined with the soft, flavorful filling makes Bread Pakora an irresistible treat, especially on rainy days when paired with a hot cup of chai.
The preparation of Bread Pakora is both simple and satisfying. To start, bread slices are typically cut into triangles, making them easy to handle and perfect for dipping. A spiced potato filling is often used, which can include ingredients like mashed potatoes, green chilies, and various Indian spices to enhance the flavor. Once the bread is stuffed, it is dipped into a seasoned gram flour batter that adds a crispy texture when fried. The final step involves deep-frying the stuffed bread until it turns crispy and golden brown, resulting in a snack that is both visually appealing and delicious.
One of the great things about Bread Pakora is its versatility. While the traditional version features a spiced potato filling, there are numerous variations to explore. For instance, in South India, you might come across Bread Bajji, where day-old bread triangles are dipped in batter and fried without any stuffing. Additionally, for those who prefer a lighter option, plain bread slices can be dipped in the gram flour batter and fried without any filling. This adaptability allows everyone to enjoy Bread Pakora according to their taste preferences.
The ingredients for Bread Pakora are quite straightforward: slices of bread, gram flour (besan), mashed potatoes, and an array of Indian spices such as cumin, coriander powder, and garam masala. Green chutney is often served alongside to add an extra layer of flavor. This combination not only makes for a delicious snack but also provides a burst of flavors that are characteristic of Indian cuisine.
Bread Pakora is typically enjoyed as a snack during tea time or as a hearty breakfast option. Its crispy exterior and warm filling make it an ideal companion for a steaming cup of chai, creating a comforting experience that many look forward to during cooler weather or rainy days. It’s also a popular choice for special occasions or weekend treats when families gather to enjoy good food together.
The etymology of the word “pakora” adds an interesting layer to this dish’s identity. Derived from the Sanskrit word pakvavata, which combines pakva (meaning “cooked”) and vata (meaning “a small lump”), it aptly describes the nature of this delightful fried snack. The name reflects not only its preparation method but also its cultural significance in Indian cuisine.
In conclusion, Bread Pakora is more than just a snack; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together over shared flavors and traditions. Whether you enjoy it stuffed with spiced potatoes or simply dipped in batter, this crispy delight continues to be a favorite among many. So next time you’re looking for a quick and satisfying treat, consider making Bread Pakora—it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Rainy Day Delight: Quick and Easy Bread Pakora Recipe
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 2 cups besan gram flour
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp kashmiri red chili powder
- ¼ tsp hing asafoetida
- salt
- ½ tsp baking soda
- Oil for frying
For the Potato Filling
- 5 medium-sized potatoes boiled and peeled
- 1 tbsp green chili paste
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- ½ tsp garam masala
- salt
- 1 tsp kasoori methi dried fenugreek leaves
- 2 tbsp tutti frutti optional
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- ¼ cup finely chopped coriander leaves
For Assembly
- 10-15 bread slices
- coriander chutney for spreading
- garlic chutney for spreading
Instructions
Assemble the Sandwiches
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups besan, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp kashmiri red chili powder, ¼ tsp hing, and salt to taste. Mix these dry ingredients well. Gradually add water, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth, consistent batter. Set aside.
- In another medium bowl, mash the 5 medium-sized potatoes (boiled and peeled). Add 1 tbsp green chili paste, 1 tbsp garlic paste, ½ tsp garam masala, salt to taste, 1 tsp kasoori methi, 2 tbsp tutti frutti (if using), 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, and ¼ cup finely chopped coriander leaves. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Take two slices of bread and spread a layer of coriander chutney and garlic chutney on one side of each slice. Place a generous amount of the potato filling between the slices, then close the sandwich. Cut each sandwich into halves or quarters. Repeat this process for all the bread slices.
Frying
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add ½ tsp baking soda to the batter along with 1 tbsp of hot oil from the pan. Mix well to incorporate.
- Dip each assembled sandwich into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated, then carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the bread pakoras from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve
- Serve your delicious Bread Pakora hot with your favorite dipping sauces or chutneys for an irresistible snack!
Video
Notes
Calorie Estimates:
Please note that the calorie counts are estimates and may vary based on cooking methods, portion sizes, and specific ingredient brands. For the most accurate nutritional information, consider calculating based on your own measurements.We Want to Hear From You!
Have you tried making Bread Pakora using this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you add any special ingredients or make it your own? Your feedback and comments can inspire others in our cooking community. If you enjoyed this delicious snack, consider sharing the recipe with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too! Drop your comments below!