Pakoras are our all-time favourite!
And why not? They’re packed with veggies, and flavorful spices, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. What’s not to love?
But, let’s be honest—traditional pakoras are often made with a lot of oil, which might not align with your health goals if you are looking to lose weight.
The good news?
You can enjoy pakoras with a healthier twist by making them low-oil!
At HD Program, we believe in helping you achieve your weight loss goals without giving up on your favourite foods. Here are five innovative low-oil pakora recipes that are as delicious as they are guilt-free.
1. Baked Vegetable Pakora
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, spinach)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- Salt to taste
- Water (to make a thick batter)
- A pinch of baking soda
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl to form a thick batter.
- Shape the batter into small balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Health Benefits:
- High in fibre and vitamins from vegetables.
- No deep frying means fewer calories and lower fat content.
Calories:
Approximately 90-100 calories per serving (3-4 pakoras).
2. Air-Fried Paneer Pakora
Ingredients:
- 100g paneer (cubed)
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 1/4 cup rice flour (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chaat masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Water (to make a batter)
Instructions:
- Prepare a batter with chickpea flour, rice flour, spices, and water.
- Dip paneer cubes in the batter to coat evenly.
- Place them in an air fryer and cook at 200°C (390°F) for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Health Benefits:
- Paneer is rich in protein and calcium.
- Air frying cuts down on oil, making it a heart-healthy option.
Calories:
Approximately 150-160 calories per serving (5-6 pakoras).
3. Spinach and Corn Pakora
Ingredients:
- 1 cup spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup sweet corn (boiled)
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 2 tbsp rice flour
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and form a thick batter.
- Shape small portions and cook in an air fryer or bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.
Health Benefits:
- Spinach is loaded with iron and antioxidants.
- Sweet corn adds a natural sweetness and fibre.
Calories:
Approximately 120-130 calories per serving (4-5 pakoras).
4. Moong Dal Pakora
Ingredients:
- 1 cup moong dal (soaked and ground into a paste)
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp green chilli (chopped)
- 2 tbsp coriander leaves (chopped)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Mix the moong dal paste with all the spices and herbs.
- Shape the batter into small balls and place them in an air fryer or bake until golden brown.
Health Benefits:
- High in plant-based protein from moong dal.
- Helps maintain satiety and aids in weight loss.
Calories:
Approximately 100-110 calories per serving (5-6 pakoras).
5. Oats and Carrot Pakora
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oats (ground into flour)
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 1/2 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Mix oats flour, grated carrots, yogurt, and spices into a thick batter.
- Shape the batter into small fritters and bake or air-fry until golden and crispy.
Health Benefits:
- Oats provide heart-healthy fibre.
- Carrots are a great source of vitamin A and antioxidants.
Calories:
Approximately 110-120 calories per serving (4-5 pakoras).
Why Low-Oil Pakoras Are a Great Choice
Choosing low-oil pakoras means you’re not just cutting calories but also making smarter food choices that support your weight loss journey.
With the right techniques like baking, air frying, steaming, or shallow frying, you can enjoy the flavours you love without the guilt of overindulging.
At HD Program, we’re here to make your weight loss journey as enjoyable as possible.
Our diet consultation services and personalised guidance help you discover new ways to enjoy your favourite foods while staying on track with your goals.
