Collard Greens and Cheddar Cheese Pakoras
Ingredients
1 red onion
2 cups finely chopped collard greens
1 teaspoon red chili powder
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
Kosher salt
1/2 cup grated aged cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups chickpea flour (besan)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 cups neutral oil, for frying
Ingredients
  1. Cut the onion in half lengthwise, slice it thinly, then place it in a mixing bowl.
  2. Add in the collard greens, chili powder, thyme, cumin seeds, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
  3. Then stir in the cheddar cheese and chickpea flour, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
  4. Add enough water to allow the ingredients to bind, but don't add too much: You do not want a watery consistency. It should be somewhat loose and just moist enough to hold together. Stir in the cilantro.
  5. In a saucepan over medium, heat the oil for 3 minutes. The temperature of the oil is important to ensure a well-crisped pakora without burning or undercooking.
  6. Gradually add the batter, one heaping teaspoon at a time. Work in batches of about 6 to 8 pakoras, depending on the size of your saucepan. It is important not to crowd the pan.
  7. Fry over medium heat for about 3 minutes, until the pakoras are crisp on one side.
  8. Turn the pakoras over and cook until the other side is crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving hot.
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