Authentic Punjabi Kadhi Pakora Recipe

Authentic Punjabi Kadhi Pakora Recipe

Recipe Details:

Authentic Punjabi Kadhi Pakora Recipe

Punjabi Kadhi Pakora is one of the most beloved comfort foods in Pakistani and North Indian households. This wholesome dish combines a tangy yogurt-based curry with soft, spiced gram flour fritters (pakoras). Served with steamed rice or roti, kadhi pakora is perfect for family meals, gatherings, or even a cozy weekend lunch. Its creamy texture, rich aroma, and unique blend of spices make it a dish you’ll want to cook again and again.

Ingredients

For Kadhi (Curry):

• 2 cups yogurt (slightly sour, whisked)
  
  
• 4 tbsp gram flour (besan)
  
  
• 4 cups water
  
  
• 1 medium onion (finely sliced)
  
  
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  
  
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
  
  
• ½ tsp fenugreek seeds (methi dana)
  
  
• 1–2 dried red chilies
  
  
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
  
  
• 1 tsp red chili powder
  
  
• ½ tsp coriander powder
  
  
• Salt to taste
  
  

For Pakoras (Fritters):

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  
  
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
  
  
• 1 green chili (chopped)
  
  
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
  
  
• ½ tsp red chili powder
  
  
• ½ tsp baking soda (optional, for softness)
  
  
• Salt to taste
  
  
• Water (to make thick batter)
  
  
• Oil (for frying)
  
  

For Tarka (Tempering):

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  
  
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
  
  
• 1 tsp garlic (finely chopped)
  
  
• 1–2 dried red chilies
  
  
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Kadhi Base

1. In a bowl, whisk yogurt and gram flour until smooth. Add water gradually to avoid lumps.
   
   
2. Heat oil or ghee in a deep pot. Add cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and dried red chilies. Let them crackle.
   
   
3. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
   
   
4. Stir in turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder.
   
   
5. Slowly pour in the yogurt-besan mixture, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
   
   
6. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and aromatic.
   
   

Step 2: Prepare the Pakoras

1. In a bowl, mix gram flour, onion, green chili, cumin seeds, red chili powder, and salt.
   
   
2. Add water gradually to make a thick batter. Add baking soda if desired.
   
   
3. Heat oil in a frying pan and drop spoonfuls of batter to make pakoras. Fry until golden and crisp.
   
   
4. To drain extra oil, remove and lay on a paper towel.
   
   

Step 3: Add Pakoras to Kadhi

1. Once the kadhi has cooked and thickened, gently add the fried pakoras.
   
   
2. Let them simmer in the curry for 5–10 minutes to absorb flavors.
   
   

Step 4: Final Tarka (Tempering)

1. Heat oil or ghee in a small pan. Add the dried red chiles, garlic, and cumin seeds.
   
   
2. Pour this hot tempering over the kadhi.
   
   
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
   
   

Final Thoughts

This authentic Punjabi kadhi pakora recipe brings together the tanginess of yogurt, the richness of spices, and the comfort of pakoras in one dish. Whether you’re making it for a weekday meal or a festive occasion, its homely taste will surely win hearts.

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