Chelo Sabzi Pakora
Chelo Sabzi Pakora is a delightful dish that originates from the rich culinary traditions of Persia. With its vibrant green hue and enticing flavor, this dish is perfect for any occasion. The term 'Chelo' refers to cooked rice, while 'Sabzi' indicates the presence of greens or herbs, and 'Pakora' denotes a fried snack. This combination brings together the freshness of herbs with the satisfying crunch of fried snacks, making it a beloved choice among food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- Basmati Rice - 1 cup
- Spinach - 200 grams
- Cilantro - 50 grams
- Dill - 30 grams
- Parsley - 30 grams
- Mint - 20 grams
- Onion - 1 large
- Chickpea Flour - 1 cup
- Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Turmeric - 1/2 teaspoon
- Baking Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Water - as needed
- Vegetable Oil - for frying
Preparation
Preparing the Rice
Start by rinsing the Basmati Rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps in getting rid of excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice. Once rinsed, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. This process allows the grains to absorb water and become less brittle, meaning they are less likely to break during cooking.
Cooking the Rice
After soaking, drain the rice and place it in a saucepan with two cups of water. Add a pinch of Salt and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
Preparing the Herb Mixture
Finely chop the Spinach, Cilantro, Dill, Parsley, and Mint. These herbs are the stars of the Chelo Sabzi Pakora, providing a fresh and earthy aroma. Mix them together in a large bowl.
Prepping the Onion
Peel and finely chop the Onion. The onion adds a mild sweetness to the pakora, balancing the strong flavors of the herbs.
Making the Pakora Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped herbs and onion with Chickpea Flour, Cumin seeds, Salt, Black Pepper, and Turmeric. Adding Baking Powder will make the pakoras light and fluffy. Gradually add Water until you achieve a thick batter that can hold the greens together.
Frying the Pakoras
Heat Vegetable Oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it. If it rises to the surface bubbling, the oil is ready. Carefully drop spoonfuls of the herb mixture into the oil and fry until the pakoras are golden brown and crisp. Ensure they are fried evenly by turning them occasionally. Once done, remove the pakoras using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Cooking Time
Frying each batch should take about 4-5 minutes. Monitor frying with a cooking timer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chelo Sabzi Pakora on a bed of fluffy Basmati Rice. The rich grains provide a delightful contrast to the crispy, savory pakoras. Pair them with a yogurt-based sauce or a tangy chutney to balance the flavors.
Enjoying Your Meal
Chelo Sabzi Pakora is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Gather family or friends, set the table with a colorful salad, and share this aromatic treat. Its vibrant flavors are sure to leave a lasting impression!