Description
This Crispy Fish Pakora recipe is a flavorful and crunchy Indian street food classic. Tender chunks of fish are marinated in spices, dipped in a gram flour batter, and fried until golden and crispy. Perfect for Iftar spreads, party appetizers, or family dinners, these pakoras are bold, aromatic, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Marinade:
- 450 g (1 lb) boneless white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
For the Batter:
- 3/4 cup gram flour (besan)
- 2 tablespoons rice flour (for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 100–120 ml water (as needed)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Fish: Cut fish into chunks. Mix lemon juice, turmeric, chilli powder, garam masala, salt, and ginger garlic paste. Coat fish and marinate 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, combine gram flour, rice flour, salt, chilli powder, carom seeds, and baking soda. Add water gradually to form a thick, smooth batter.
- Coat & Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (180°C). Dip marinated fish pieces in batter and fry in small batches for 4–6 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or lemon wedges.
Notes
- Pat fish dry before marinating to prevent soggy batter.
- Rice flour adds extra crispiness.
- Check oil temperature with a drop of batter — it should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — fry in small batches for even crisping.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be reheated in oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Deep-Fried
- Cuisine: Indian Street Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
Keywords: Crispy Fish Pakora, Fish Pakora Recipe, Indian Street Food, Iftar Snacks, Deep Fried Fish, Pakora Recipes, Fish Appetizers, Party Snacks, Spicy Fish Pakora