🥔 Pakora Bliss with Zesty Dip

🛒 Ingredients

Main Mix

• 150g prawns (chopped)
• ½ onion (finely chopped)
• 2 spring onions (sliced)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 2 tsp basil
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ cube of OXO seasoning
• 115g all-purpose flour
• 1–2 tbsp water (as needed for texture)

Optional Dip

• ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for spice)
• 1–2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1–2 tbsp ketchup

✨ Mix the Flavors

Start by placing your chopped onion, spring onions, paprika, prawns, turmeric, curry, cumin, basil, salt, pepper, and half a cube of OXO seasoning into a large bowl.
Now, gently mix everything by hand until all the ingredients are well combined. This is more than just tossing ingredients — it’s where the real flavor magic begins. You’ll start to smell those spices coming alive, blending beautifully with the prawns and onions.
Let the mixture sit for a few minutes while you get ready for the next step. This little rest time allows the flavors to settle and mingle — like a quick marinade, but fast and effective.

👐 Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to add your flour and water — but take your time with this part.
Start by adding the flour bit by bit, then slowly drizzle in 1 to 2 tablespoons of water as needed. Using your hands, gently mix everything. You’re not just combining ingredients — you’re shaping texture and balance.
Move slowly and intentionally, letting each spoonful of flour blend in, soaking up the flavor-packed spice mix. What you’re looking for is a thick, cohesive batter that hugs the prawns and veggies without being too runny.
This stage is where the magic starts to take form — soft enough to hold together, firm enough to fry up crispy and golden.

💧 Get the Texture Just Right

Now, slowly add water — just one tablespoon at a time.
Your goal is to reach a thick, paste-like consistency. Not too wet, not too crumbly — just the right balance that clings to the prawns and vegetables without dripping.
This texture is what holds everything together when it hits the hot oil, giving you that signature crispy outside with a soft, flavorful center.
So go slow. Mix gently. Trust the feel.
Ready for the frying step? Let’s make these golden and irresistible!

🔥 Time to Fry to Crispy Perfection

🌶️ Make the Optional Spicy Dip

Grab a small bowl and spoon in equal parts mayonnaise and ketchup. Want to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of chili powder to give it that fiery kick.
Now mix it all until smooth and creamy. That’s it! A quick, zesty dip that pairs perfectly with your crispy prawn pakoras.
Set it aside for serving — or go ahead and sneak a taste (we won’t tell).

Time to Serve and Savor!

Once your golden prawn pakoras are perfectly crisp, gently place them on a paper towel to soak up any extra oil. You want them light, not greasy — just the right texture that crunches on the outside and melts inside.
Now, bring out your zesty dip — creamy, tangy, with just the right kick if you added chili powder. Dip, bite, and enjoy the fireworks of flavor. ✨
These pakoras aren’t just food — they’re the kind of treat that gathers people. Great for celebrations, a cozy snack with tea, or something special just for you. One bite, and you’ll see why they’ve stood the test of time — loved from street stalls in India to your kitchen today.