Bread pakora is the most indulgent Indian snack of all time. The bread slices are coated with besan and deep-fried to perfection. Hardly there are any people who don’t drool over the sight of bread pakora. What elevates the bread pakora to the next level is when paired with a cup of chai. However, how much ever you like it, you can’t ignore the fact that it is quite unhealthy.
As bread pakora is a deep-fried dish, it means adding extra calories, thus leading to weight gain. Due to this reason, many people curb their cravings and avoid eating it. Although there’s no harm in eating it occasionally, when you start to have it often, the problem arises there. However, have you ever wondered if the break pakora can be made guilt-free and healthy? You have the solution in this article. With simple tweaks, you can transform your classic snack into a healthier and equally delicious one.
Take a look at some of the tips and tricks to make bread pakora healthy.
- Choose Whole Grain Bread
As the name suggests, bread pakora is nothing without the bread itself. To make it healthier, choose whole grain or multigrain bread instead of white bread. Whole grain bread is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals thus providing more nutrients and keeping you full for longer periods. Also, opt for bread with minimal added sugars and preservatives.
- Bake Instead Of Fry
One of the significant changes you can bring in the cooking process of bread pakora is baking instead of deep frying. Deep frying is the traditional method, and with an increase of health-conscious people around, baking them can be beneficial as it is the lighter alternative. To achieve this, preheat the oven to 190°C and lightly coat the bread pakoras with cooking spray or brush them with a small amount of oil and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet until golden brown and crispy. This method reduces the overall fat content yet achieves a crispy texture.
- Stuff With Nutrient-Rich Fillings
You can upgrade the filling of your bread pakora with nutritious ingredients to boost its health profile. Move from the traditional potato filling and try using mashed sweet potatoes, paneer, spinach, or mixed vegetables. These alternatives add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your pakora while enhancing its flavour and texture.
- Incorporate Herbs And Spices
The flavour of your bead pakora can be elevated to the next level by the addition of spices and herbs and not just relying on salt and excessive oil. You can experiment with spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala for a burst of flavours. You can also add fresh coriander leaves for an additional vibrant touch. These ingredients not only make your food more delicious but also provide health benefits due to the presence of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Serve With Healthy Accompaniments
You can always pair your bread pakora with nutritious accompaniments to make it healthier. Do not opt for heavy chutneys or sauces, rather choose homemade mint yoghurt dip or a tangy tamarind chutney made with natural sweeteners. These dips add flavour and creaminess without adding extra calories and unhealthy fats found otherwise in traditional accompaniments.
- Practice Portion Control
Even if you’re making a healthier version of bread pakora, it is essential to practice portion control and avoid overindulgence. You can enjoy this pakora as a snack or light meal and not as the main course. Limit yourself to a reasonable serving size. Pair them with salads or fresh fruit to create a balanced meal that satisfies your craving without overloading you with calories.
