South Indian Onion Pakodas Recipe

Experience the irresistible crunch of authentic South Indian Onion Pakodas! These spicy, savory fritters are a beloved snack, best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Made with red onions for optimal crispiness and a secret touch of baking soda for extra lift, this recipe delivers perfectly golden-brown, bite-sized pakodas every time. A simple yet flavorful recipe perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 284.1 kcal
Protein 18g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
South Indian Onion Pakodas 23

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for South Indian Onion Pakodas

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How to Make South Indian Onion Pakodas

  1. Sift together 1/2 cup rice flour and 1/2 cup chickpea flour.
  2. Gently rub 1 teaspoon of salt into 2 medium red onions, finely chopped (this draws out moisture).
  3. Heat 2 cups of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped onions, sifted flours, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 2-3 finely chopped green chilies, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, a small handful of curry leaves, and salt to taste.
  5. Remove 3 tablespoons of hot oil from the pan and add it to the onion mixture. Mix thoroughly.
  6. The mixture will be slightly dry. Divide it into 4-5 portions.
  7. Sprinkle a little water (about 1-2 tablespoons) into ONE portion at a time, mixing until the mixture just holds together when pressed gently. Do not over-wet; the batter should be slightly sticky but not runny.
  8. Test the seasoning by frying a small amount. Adjust salt and chili powder as needed.
  9. Gently form small balls or any desired shapes from the batter. You can also crumble some of the mixture into the hot oil for extra crispy bits.
  10. Carefully drop the pakodas into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  11. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger ones.
  12. Remove the pakodas with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  13. Repeat steps 7-12 for the remaining portions of the batter.
  14. Store the cooled pakodas in an airtight container.
  15. **Variations:** Add 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro and/or mint for extra freshness. Or, reduce the onion quantity and add 1/4 cup whole cashews.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

1 g

Sugar

32g

Fat

1g

Carbs

18g

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