FLAVOURS

Dudhi Pakodas

The rains are upon us and its the weekend too. Most people would love to have friends over or just chill and enjoy the lovely weather with a hot plate of crisp pakodas and a steaming cup of chai or coffee.
Pakodas made out of aloo, pyaaz, gobi, mirchi, palak etc are quite common and popular. However not many people think of making Dudhi or White Pumpkin Pakodas.
Dudhi Pakodas are very light, delicious and melt in the mouth. Here is how you can make a plate full of the delicious Dudhi pakodas.

Ingredients-

1. 2-3 inch (length) piece of Dudhi / Lauki
2. 1 small bowl of gram flour / Besan
3. 1/2 tsp Ajwain
4. 1/4 tsp Red chilli powder
5. 1 pinch soda bicarb
6. Salt to taste
7. Few coriander leaves, finely chopped (optional)
8. 1 bowl of oil for frying

Procedure -

Peel the Dudhi / Lauki and cut into wafer thin slices, keep aside in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix gram flour with spices. Slowly add water and blend well, to make a smooth batter, slightly thinner than ketchup consistency.
Heat oil in a kadhai. When really hot, lower flame to medium and dip each Dudhi slice in the batter and gently put into the hot oil. Fry 4 - 6 slices at a time and turn around until golden brown on both sides. Remove from oil and place on tissue, to drain out any excess oil.
Serve hot with green chutney / ketchup / pickle. And slices of pau bread (optional)