Kadhi Pakoras

Dal (Lentils), Gluten Free, Summer Recipes, Vegetables Curry / Gravy
Kadhi Pakoras

Kadhi Pakoras

Kadhi, a blend of yogurt and besan (gram flour) with besan pakoras, this is served with rice. This dish is popular throughout India.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 2 people

Ingredients
  

For Kadhi

  • 1 cup yogurt dahi, curd
  • 2/3 cup besan gram flour
  • 6 cup water
  • 2 tbsp ghee clarified butter
  • 1/8 tsp asafetida hing
  • 1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds methi dana
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds jeera
  • 1 tsp turmeric haldi
  • 4 whole red chilies
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • pinch citric acid if needed to give more sourness to kadhi

For Pakoras

  • 3/4 cup besan, gram flour
  • 2/3 cup water use as needed

For Garnish

  • 1 tsp ghe clarified butter
  • 1 tsp red chili powder

Instructions
 

Making Kadhi

  • Mix gram flour and turmeric with yogurt until smooth. Add three cups of water slowly and mix well.
  • Heat the oil in a saucepan. Test the heat by adding one cumin seed to the oil. If the cumin seeds crack right away, the oil is ready. Add the asafetida, fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, stir and add bay leaves, whole red chilies, and red chili powder. Stir for a few seconds. Add the yogurt mixture and keep stirring until the kadhi comes to a boil.
  • Add three cups of water and let it come to boil. Add salt. Turn the heat to medium low. Let the kadhi cook an hour and a half, stir occasionally. To adjust thickness, add boiled water.

Making Pakoras

  • Add water slowly to the besan to make a smooth and thick batter. Whip the besan batter two to three minutes in a circular motion using a spoon, until light and fluffy.
  • Fry the pakoras in ½ inch of oil in a flat frying pan over medium heat. (Don’t use enough oil to cover the pakoras; they will be softer and fluffier if fried in shallow oil.
  • To test, drop one drop of batter into the oil. The batter should form a ball on the surface of the pan, but not change color right away.
  • Place about one tablespoon of batter into the oil. Fry the pakoras in small batches until golden-brown.
  • After frying, soak the pakoras in room-temperature water for ten minutes. Squeeze the pakoras gently to remove the water, taking care not to break them.
  • Add the pakoras to the kadhi and boil on low to medium heat for ten minutes.

Making the Seasoning

  • Heat the ghee (clarified butter) lightly in a small saucepan. Add chili powder and/or paprika (adjust to taste). Pour over the kadhi when ready to serve.

Notes

Variations 
Add one cup chopped spinach to the kadhi just before adding the pakoras for extra flavor and color. 
Add one tablespoon dry fenugreek leaves (dry mathi leaves) to the pakora batter.
My favrait way to Serve Kadhi Pakoras is with Rice, Roti, Jeera Aloo, Spicy Green Peas
 
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Punjabi Kadhi Pakora Recipe:

Kadhi Pakora is a gluten-free summer recipe featuring a savory vegetable curry with dal (lentils) and crispy fried pakoras, creating a delightful and flavorful dish. Kadhi Pakora, a popular North Indian dish, is a comforting and flavorful yogurt-based curry with gram flour dumplings. This traditional dish is known for its tangy and savory taste, making it a favorite among many households. In this kadhi recipe, we’ll show you how to make authentic Punjabi Kadhi Pakora step by step, so you can enjoy its deliciousness at home. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or planning a special dinner, Kadhi Pakora is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Step 1: Preparation of Ingredients for kadhi pakora punjabi style

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for making Kadhi Pakora. For the pakoras, prepare a batter using gram flour, spices, and water. Slice and chop green chilies, cilantro, and ginger for the pakora batter. For the kadhi, whisk yogurt and gram flour together until smooth, and set aside. Finely tomatoes and ginger for the kadhi gravy. Having all the ingredients ready will streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Making Pakoras:

To make the pakoras, heat oil in a deep-frying pan. Drop Spoonfuls of the pakora batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove the pakoras from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Repeat the process until all the batter is used. The crispy pakoras will add texture and flavor to the kadhi.

Step 3: Preparing the Kadhi Base:

In a large pot or saucepan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and fenugreek seeds, and let them splutter. Next, add ginger, and cook until fragrant. The aromatic base will form the foundation of the kadhi gravy, imparting depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Cooking the Kadhi:

Once the aromatics are sautéed, it’s time to add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook the tomatoes until they soften and break down, forming a thick gravy. Then, add the whisked yogurt and gram flour mixture to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.

Step 5: Adding Pakoras:

Once the kadhi base is cooked and thickened, add the fried pakoras to the pot. Gently stir to coat the pakoras with the flavorful kadhi gravy. Allow the pakoras to simmer in the kadhi for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. The combination of soft pakoras and tangy kadhi creates a harmonious and satisfying dish.

Step 6: Finishing Touches:

Before serving, garnish the Kadhi Pakora with freshly chopped cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness and color. You can also sprinkle some roasted cumin powder on top for extra flavor. Serve the Kadhi Pakora hot with steamed rice or roti for a comforting and wholesome meal.

Tips for Making Perfect Kadhi Pakora:

  • Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the kadhi by adding more water if it’s too thick or simmering longer if it’s too thin.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh yogurt and spices for the best flavor in the kadhi gravy.
  • Frying Pakoras: Fry the pakoras in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Variations of Kadhi Pakora:

  • Vegetarian Variation: Skip the addition of pakoras and add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to the kadhi for a vegetarian version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use chickpea flour (besan) instead of wheat flour for the pakora batter to make it gluten-free.
  • Spicy Version: Add extra green chilies or red chili powder for a spicier kadhi.

Benefits of Including Kadhi Pakora in Your Diet:

  • Probiotic-rich: Yogurt used in kadhi is rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and digestion.
  • Good Source of Protein: Gram flour used in pakoras adds protein to the dish, making it a satisfying meal option.
  • Balanced Meal: Kadhi Pakora is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, protein, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kadhi Pakora:

Q: Can I make kadhi without pakoras?

A: Yes, you can skip adding pakoras and enjoy the kadhi as a creamy yogurt-based curry with a tempering of spices.

Q: How long does kadhi pakora last in the refrigerator?

A: Kadhi Pakora can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I freeze kadhi pakora?

A: While you can freeze kadhi pakora, the texture of the pakoras may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

For more delicious Indian curry recipes, visit Manjula’s Kitchen. Explore a variety of vegetarian curry dishes featuring a range of spices, vegetables, and legumes to add flavor and variety to your meals.

For more delicious Indian recipes, check out Manjula’s Kitchen: Chole Bhature, Naan, Paneer Tikka Masala, Aloo Paratha, Vegetable Biryani.


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87 thoughts on “Kadhi Pakoras”

  1. Maam please please suggest me, can I give khadipakoras in lunch box, will pakoras won’t become over soft. Please suggest what to do for pakoras in khadi not to be over melted if given in lunvh box

  3. Dear Manjula, 3/4 cup and 2/3 cup water for making pakoras made my batter too watery. I had to add more besan to the batter to make pakoras. Is this measurement correct? Just checking! Please reply.. thank you for the most delicious and easy recipes. You are truly appreciated by me and many others!

  4. Aunty my kadhi turns thinner after 1 2 hour…when i am making its conositency is thick, but as time goes it becomes thinner and if i reheat it, it becomes like water…what could be reason.Please need your help

  8. Hi Aunty, I have tried kadhi recipe two times but both times it separated. Please advise why it separates and becomes watery. It doesn’t come out smooth.
    thanks,
    Meena

      1. Is there any other reason other than cooking on high flame that’s separates it. Cuz even my Kari gets separated in spite of cookin on low flame. Reasons like the texture of curd or ratio of beans to curd etc.. pls reply

  13. I have a suggestion which my Ma used to do while making pakori.pakori ke liye aap Besan ke batter mei u can add little refine oil, sauf, salt and all Mirch powder. Put the fried pakori in slight warm water. This will add softness to pakori.

  14. Pingback: Kadhi Pakoras | elfjeskruid
  16. Pingback: Anyone know Kadi pakora recipe??? - IndusLadies

  17. hi aunty, i’m pinky your all recipes were fab n i dint know the proper way to prepare these food thanks for helping me like mother because my dad n mom separated wen i was small…. so from cooking your recipes i ll make my papa happy…. 🙂 please send some tips for making good food, my request is for all didis,auntys n grandma too… 🙂 thank u… 🙂

  21. Hello Manjula Auntie,

    I have prepared alomst all of your recipes. Your Aloo Gobi and Daal Makhni are all time favorites in my family. Keep posting and thank you

    Manira

  23. Pingback: Kadhi Pakora « realfoodonly

  24. Hello Auntie ji
    I’m trying to use the least amount of oil possible and am wondering if it is possible to cook pakoras in a manner other than frying. Thank you so much for your wonderful recipes, greatly enjoyed by my family. Kelly

  27. Thank you for the recipe, it was very easy to make and very tasty. Sri Sri Radha Giridhari, our deities here at New Govardhana Dhama in San Diego certainly enjoyed it with their puris, hot milk, and mysore pak tonight.

    Hare Krsna

  30. Hi Manjulaji
    My compliments on your fail proof recipes! I had some aloo pakoras left and have question on mixing that in the yogurt blend instead of the bland pakoras. Your thoughts are appreciated.
    Renuka

  33. Thanks a lot Manjulaji.Your delicious and mouth watering recipes are so accurate…………….its amazing…..i m learning a lot from you everyday.

    God bless you and your family……….
    Thank you once again.

  35. Thanks Manjula ji for this great recipe. I really wanna thank you for your other delicious & mouth watering recipes. I must say that you put really good efforts to make us learn how cooking is done perfectly. I have learnt a lot from you. Whenever I watch you cooking its feels as if my own mom is cooking for me 🙂

    God bless you & your family….!!!!

    Kuku

  37. two points for clarity
    1) agree the besan must be sieved and warm water maybe is better add in small increments slowly while continuing to mix with a spoon or hand blender
    2) to prevent lumpy hold the salt till later
    3) also continuous stirring when the Karhi starts heating up u cannot walk away must stir till rolling boil otherwise the karhi may fragment/or particulate .

  40. Hello

    My mother makes the kadhi almost the same way… although I always wanted to try making it myself but never had the confidence, because I never followed my mother to the kitchen to learn the process… which I regret.
    I really want to thank you for the video. Not only it helped me learn but gave me the confidence to try this recipe right now.

    This was my first visit to your kitchen… but I think I’m gonna continue visiting you from now on 🙂

    thanks

    Subaika
    (Houston, Tx)

  42. hi manjula,
    You made cooking so easy and delicious. Now I dont have to ask any one else because now whenever I have to make something i just see your recipe and good thing your recipe are very simple and easy. tahnks a looooooooooot for your help.
    Akvinder

    1. hi nina,
      sour yoghurt makes good taste so u can take out curd from the refrigerator a day before u make kadhi. u can even try buttermilk for this.this also goes well.
      last time when i made kadhi i used buttermilk along with half of curd and it came out very delicious.

    1. hi jyoti,

      your problem could be because of the besan. For smooth even texture, you should sieve the besan before adding to the yogurt mixture.i use a manual egg beater and put the besan in small quantities in the yogurt, that way i can make sure there are no lumps. See if that works for you!

  47. namaste manjula ji….
    can i use buttermilk instead of yogurt…..for making this dish….
    rest ur dishes are all fabulous mst say this……
    may god bless u

  50. hi mam,
    i saw some of ur cookery videos.its vry nice.if u try any new dishes.send me 2 my mail id.its vry useful 2 me .I need 1 help ,im studying mbbs,im staying in hostel.at morning i want 2 make easy dish fastly & tasty too.send me some recipes.

  52. Hamida, in my opinion the pakoras need spices.
    I add salt, red chili powder, and cumin powder to the pakora batter. Put the same amount as you would for any besan pakora. I sometimes add crumbled dried methi (fenugreek) leaves to the pakora batter too – probably about 2 tablespoons for this recipe.
    Jaya

  53. I made this today and the kadhi was just okay and the pakoras were tasteless. I don’t know why that happened but it just turned out very bad. The pakoras didn’t have any taste in it and I had to throw away the entire dish. Is it because the pakoras didn’t have salt or any type of spice in it?

  56. Manjula Jee,

    Your recpies remind me of my late mother’s cooking … Thank you for sharing your wealth with us. I am making the Kadhi tonight …. and it just looks like my mom’s and I am sure it will taste as good …

    Thanks,
    SK

  60. FYI: Find dry fenugreek leaves in the Indian/Pakistani grocery store sold as “Kasoori Methi”.
    “Methi” means fenugreek and is pronounced as “may-tee”.

  61. Dear Manjulaji,
    I just made this today for dinner and it came out very well! I liked the flavor a lot. I had always made Kadhi with garam masala (my family’s recipe), but I like your recipe better without the garam masala – nothing I need to mention to my mother-in-law 🙂

    I used a couple of teaspoons of lemon juice to make it more “khatta” (sour) as I didn’t have citric acid in the house.
    Thank you again for providing such RELIABLE recipes.

  65. I saw ur video on Youtube & in that i read about ur website…it is excellent way to teach veg. cooking…Me & my whole family is vegetarian……& it is amazing that been in USA from so log u r still vegetarian.Now i will always refer ur site for recipes.

  66. Thank you Aunty…I am following all your recipes and found them easy to follow. you are simply fascinating and I see my mothers image in you..Keep posting new recipes as I have become a better cook solely because of you..

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