Ribbon Pakora | Ola Pakkavada (Baked & Fried version)

Ribbon Pakora or commonly known as pakavada /ola pakavada/tape pakavada in Kerala is a crisp snack which can be served with tea.This can be prepared in no time and with very fewer efforts.We all love this snack a lot and so made these.I always tried the fried version and so had started avoiding this snack as it's deep-fried.

But now, for a change, I have started trying out the baked version of these pakoras.It was a very successful effort, they were very crisp just like the fried version (see pics below the broken bits are baked).The only drawback what I felt is a slight change in the taste, the baked ones had a milder taste compared to the fried ones.The oil adds taste to the deep-fried ones, and that was the only missing in the baked batch.However, If you are health conscious and would love to avoid deep-frying, you can always go ahead & try the baked version.And I tried both baked & fried version, a batch each and kids enjoyed the fried ones while we enjoyed the baked !!

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Ingredients
rice flour 1 cup
kadalamavu/besan/ gram flour 1 cup
chilly powder 3/4 -1 tsp
asafoetida /hing /kayam podi 1/2 tsp
salt
oil 1 tbsp
curry leaves 2 -3 sprigs

For frying
oil for deep-frying

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Method

• Mix both the flours together without any lumps.Add salt, chilly powder, asafoetida and give a quick mix. Warm a tbsp of oil and mix with the flour mix. Add in half cup of water (or little more) and make a smooth dough. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
• Transfer the dough into an idiyappam press or mould with the pakora cutter/plate in it.Add the dough in it, close.

FOR FRYING VERSION-

• Heat oil in a wok and when the oil is hot, drop a small ball to check if the oil is hot. If the ball immediately floats up in oil. That means oil is hot enough.
• Press the mould over the oil in circular motion or straight lines until the wok looks filled (don't overcrowd). One the bubbling subsides, flip the other side and fry. When the bubbling is reduced, remove using slotted spoon or fry till golden brown. Fry the curry leaves and add. Serve with tea!!

FOR BAKED VERSION-

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line a tray with parchment paper.Press the idiyappam press in a single line and leaving space in between.

• Bake in the oven for 12-14 mins, turn and bake the other side for 7-10 mins until crisp and moving in the tray. Break in pieces and serve!!

(Baked Version)

Servings ~  a large bowl

NOTES
* Adding fried curry leaves increases the flavour.
* Baking time totally depends on the thickness of the pakoras and the type of plates you are using.Please keep a close watch on this.
* Chilly powder can be increased depending on your taste buds.