Crispy and Delicious: Chef Viraj Shares a Quick 15-Minute Spin on Classic Spinach Pakoras

Crispy snacks are everyone’s favorite, and spinach pakoras take that love to another level. Celebrity chef Viraj Naik has shared a unique twist on the traditional pakora recipe, offering a flavorful, healthy, and super-quick version that takes only 15 minutes.

Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a rainy day, hot pakoras with tea are a staple of Indian homes. While many make basic gram flour fritters, Chef Viraj’s recipe incorporates fresh spinach and other vegetables, giving the snack a vibrant look, a distinct texture, and a healthier profile.

No Added Water, Extra Crunch
A key feature of this recipe is that no water is added. Instead, the natural moisture released by the vegetables during preparation is used to form the batter, keeping the pakoras crispy for longer. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can make a snack that easily rivals store-bought treats.

Fresh Vegetables and Flavorful Mix
Start by finely chopping onion, carrot, cabbage, and fresh spinach. Add ginger and green chilies for a hint of spice. This mix not only makes the pakoras colorful but also adds a pleasant crunch and texture.

Binding with Gram Flour and Rice Flour
To bind the mixture, add gram flour (besan) along with a little rice flour, which absorbs moisture and gives the pakoras an extra crunch. If the batter seems too wet, add a bit more gram flour.

Balanced Spices
Enhance the flavor with red chili powder, crushed black pepper, and finely chopped coriander. The black pepper’s subtle heat complements the spinach beautifully. Adjust salt carefully, keeping in mind that some was already added while massaging the vegetables.

Baking Soda and Hot Oil for Perfect Crispiness
A pinch of baking soda and a small amount of hot oil added to the batter ensures that the pakoras are soft inside and crispy outside. Mix well to form a uniform thick batter.

Frying to Perfection
Heat oil over medium flame and drop small portions of the batter to fry until golden brown. For an extra burst of flavor, fry a few green chilies along with the pakoras. Serve piping hot for a snack that’s both crunchy and flavorful.

With this quick and easy recipe, Chef Viraj Naik has reinvented a classic snack into a 15-minute culinary delight perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings.