Kadhi Pakora is one of the most loved traditional dishes in Pakistani and Punjabi households. It is known for its creamy yogurt-based curry, soft pakoras, and comforting tangy flavor. This dish is especially popular for family lunches, simple dinners, and comfort meals, because it is filling, nutritious, and extremely satisfying.
In this detailed recipe, you will learn how to make perfect Kadhi Pakora at home with the right balance of sourness, spice, and thickness.
What Is Kadhi Pakora?
Kadhi Pakora is a yogurt and besan (gram flour) based curry in which fried pakoras (fritters) are added and simmered gently. The yogurt gives kadhi its tangy taste, while pakoras add softness and texture.
Unlike heavy curries, kadhi pakora is light yet filling, which is why it is enjoyed regularly in desi homes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why Kadhi Pakora is a household favorite:
First of all, it is comfort food at its best
Secondly, it is easy to digest
It uses simple pantry ingredients
Moreover, it tastes even better the next day
Finally, it pairs perfectly with plain rice or roti
This recipe gives you perfect consistency kadhi, not too thin and not too thick.
Ingredients for Kadhi Pakora
To make things easy, ingredients are divided into clear sections.
Ingredients for Pakoras
1 cup besan (gram flour)
1 small onion (thinly sliced)
½ teaspoon red chili powder
1 green chilli (chopped)
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Water (as needed)
Oil for frying
Ingredients for Kadhi (Yogurt Curry)
2 cups yogurt (sour works best)
6 tablespoons besan
6 cups water
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Ingredients for Tarka (Tempering)
3 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
8–10 curry leaves
2 dried red chilies
1 tablespoon garlic (chopped)
1 teaspoon red chili powder
How to Make Kadhi Pakora – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare Pakora Batter
First of all, add besan, onion, green chili, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt into a bowl.
Then gradually add water and mix until you get a thick batter. The batter should not be runny.
Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps pakoras turn softer.
Step 2: Fry the Pakoras
Heat oil in a pan on medium flame.
Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil.
Fry until pakoras turn golden brown.
Remove and place on kitchen paper. Keep aside.
Step 3: Prepare Kadhi Base
In a large bowl, whisk yogurt, besan, turmeric powder, salt, and water until smooth and lump-free.
This step is very important because lumps can ruin kadhi texture.
Step 4: Cook the Kadhi
Pour the yogurt mixture into a pot and cook on medium flame.
Keep stirring continuously until it comes to a boil. This prevents yogurt from splitting.
Once it starts boiling, reduce flame and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes.
Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Add Pakoras
Now gently add fried pakoras into the simmering kadhi.
Cook for another 10 minutes so pakoras absorb flavor and soften.
Step 6: Prepare Tarka
Heat oil in a small pan.
Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them crackle.
Then add curry leaves, dried red chilies, and chopped garlic.
Finally, add red chili powder and turn off the flame.
Immediately pour this hot tarka over the kadhi.
Tips for Perfect Kadhi Pakora
Use slightly sour yogurt
Whisk kadhi mixture well
Stir continuously at the start
Slow cooking gives best flavor
Add pakoras near the end
Variations You Can Try
Punjabi Kadhi: Add onions in tarka
No-Pakora Kadhi: Skip pakoras for lighter version
Spicy Kadhi: Add more green chilies
Sindhi Style Kadhi: Add vegetables
Serving Suggestions
Kadhi Pakora tastes best when served with:
Plain steamed rice
Zeera rice
Roti or chapati
Fresh salad
Perfect for:
Lunch meals
Simple dinners
Comfort food cravings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my kadhi too thin?
This happens if besan quantity is low or kadhi is not simmered long enough.
Can I store kadhi pakora?
Yes, it stays fresh in fridge for up to 2 days.
Does kadhi taste sour?
It should be mildly tangy, not overly sour.
Can I reheat kadhi?
Yes, reheat on low flame with a little water.
Final Thoughts
Kadhi Pakora is a timeless desi comfort dish that never goes out of style. When made correctly, it delivers creaminess, tang, and warmth in every bite.
This detailed recipe ensures you get perfect Kadhi Pakora every single time, without confusion or mistakes.