Bread Pakora, a popular Indian snack, is known for its crispy texture and bold flavors. It can be prepared in two main ways: the Plain Bread Pakora, which is bread dipped in a spiced batter and fried, and the Stuffed Bread Pakora, where the bread is filled with a savory potato mixture before frying. Both versions are equally delicious and make a perfect tea-time snack or breakfast treat.
This blog will guide you through both recipes with simple instructions so you can enjoy either (or both!) version at home.
Key Ingredients for Bread Pakora Recipe
For 6-8 Bread Pakoras, you will need:
For the batter (common to both versions):
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain) (optional)
- Salt to taste (around 1/2 teaspoon)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- Water, as needed (around 3/4 cup)
- Oil for frying
For Plain Bread Pakora:
- 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
For Stuffed Bread Pakora (Filling):
- 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Salt to taste (around 1/2 teaspoon)
- 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking the filling)
How to Make Bread Pakora (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Prepare the Batter (For Both Versions)
In a large mixing bowl, combine gram flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, carom seeds, salt, and garam masala.
Gradually add water, stirring continuously to form a smooth, thick batter. It should not be too runny or too thick—similar to pancake batter.
Stir in the chopped green chili and fresh coriander leaves.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing (For Stuffed Bread Pakora)
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add the mashed potatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and green chili. Stir well to combine.
Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Add chopped fresh coriander leaves to the mixture and mix again.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
For Plain Bread Pakora, take each slice of bread and cut it diagonally into two triangles (or squares, if preferred).
For Stuffed Bread Pakora, take each slice of bread, spread a layer of the prepared potato stuffing on one slice, and cover it with another slice like a sandwich. Cut this sandwich into two triangles.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai over medium heat. There should be enough oil to submerge the bread pakoras halfway.
Make sure the oil is hot before frying. Test by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the top quickly.
Step 5: Dip and Fry the Bread
Take a slice of bread (or stuffed sandwich) and dip it into the prepared batter, making sure it is fully coated on both sides.
Gently place the batter-coated bread into the hot oil.
Fry in small batches, turning occasionally to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy.
Once done, remove the pakoras from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Taste and Texture
Plain Bread Pakora: It has a crunchy outer layer with a soft interior, offering a mild, savory flavor with hints of spice from the gram flour batter.
Stuffed Bread Pakora: The stuffed version has a flavorful mashed potato filling inside the crispy bread, with a spiced batter that creates a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and soft, spiced potato filling inside.
Both versions can be enjoyed with chutneys or ketchup, adding extra flavor to each bite.
Health Benefits
While Bread Pakora is a deep-fried snack, it is rich in protein from the gram flour (besan), and when stuffed with potatoes, it becomes a filling snack packed with carbs and fiber. Gram flour is gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those avoiding gluten. The use of spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala adds health benefits, such as aiding digestion and providing anti-inflammatory properties.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 160-200
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
This recipe yields 6-8 bread pakoras depending on the size of the bread slices and the amount of stuffing used.
Expert Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
Batter consistency is key—too thin, and it won’t coat the bread well; too thick, and the pakoras will be heavy and undercooked inside.
Fry on medium heat to ensure the pakoras cook evenly and become crispy without burning.
Double-dip the bread for extra crispiness, especially if you want a thicker coating.
Make sure the stuffing is cool before using it in the bread; otherwise, the bread may become soggy.
You can use whole wheat bread for a healthier version, and lightly fry the pakoras in less oil or use an air fryer.
Variations
- Cheese Bread Pakora: Add a slice of cheese inside the stuffed pakoras for a cheesy twist.
- Vegetable Stuffed Pakora: Along with potatoes, you can add mashed peas, carrots, or paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to the stuffing for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Baked Bread Pakora: For a healthier version, bake the bread pakoras in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer the simplicity of Plain Bread Pakora or the extra flavor of Stuffed Bread Pakora, this snack is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. With its crispy texture and bold flavors, bread pakoras are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Serve them with your favorite chutneys or sauces for an unforgettable snack experience!
By following these simple steps and expert tips, you’ll master both plain and stuffed bread pakoras in no time. Enjoy!
Can bread pakoras be baked instead of fried?
Yes, bread pakoras can be baked for a healthier version. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), place the pakoras on a greased baking tray, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
What chutney goes best with bread pakoras?
Bread pakoras are typically served with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup. You can also pair them with a yogurt-based dip for a milder flavor.
Are bread pakoras gluten-free?
Bread pakoras are not gluten-free if made with regular bread. However, you can use gluten-free bread and gram flour for a gluten-free version.
What is the difference between plain and stuffed bread pakoras?
Plain bread pakoras are made by dipping bread directly into the batter and frying. Stuffed bread pakoras have a savory filling (commonly spiced potatoes) between two slices of bread before being dipped in batter and fried.
How long can bread pakoras be stored?
Bread pakoras are best eaten fresh. If stored, they can lose their crispiness. However, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day and reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore some of their crunch.