How to Make the Perfect Pakoras & Samosas for Iftar

 At sunset, Iftar marks the joyous moment of breaking the fast, traditionally with dates and water, followed by delicious dishes. Among the most beloved Iftar treats are crispy pakoras and samosas, fried to golden perfection and served with flavorful chutneys. These savory delights bring warmth and togetherness to the Iftar table, making Ramadan a time of spiritual and communal joy.

Pakoras:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups gram flour (besan)

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 cup water

• 2 cups chopped vegetables (onions, potatoes, spinach, etc.)

• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and baking soda. Mix well.

2. Add water to the mixture and mix until you have a thick batter.

3. Add the chopped vegetables to the batter and mix well.

4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.

5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.

6. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Serve hot with your favorite chutney.

Samosas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup oil

• 1/2 cup water

• 2 cups mashed potatoes

• 1/2 cup green peas

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

• Salt to taste

• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and oil. Mix well.

2. Gradually add water to the mixture and knead until you have a smooth dough.

3. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

4. In a separate pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Fry until fragrant.

5. Add mashed potatoes, green peas, coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes.

6. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.

7. Cut the circle in half and form a cone shape.

8. Fill the cone with the potato filling and seal the edges with water.

9. Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.

10. Fry the samosas until golden brown.

11. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

12. Serve hot with tamarind chutney.

​Ramadan is a month of devotion and fasting, with Sehri providing energy and Iftar bringing joy. Crispy pakoras and samosas enhance the experience, making Iftar a cherished moment of togetherness and gratitude.

Ramadan Mubarak!