Crispy & Flavorful Fish Pakora Recipe – A Perfect Seafood Appetizer

Fish Pakora is a delicious South Asian seafood snack featuring bite-sized fish fillets coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter, deep-fried to golden perfection. This dish is popular at weddings, family gatherings, and special occasions, offering a crispy and flavourful bite every time.


📌 Recipe Details

🕒 Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4


🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or any white fish)
  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • 2 tbsp rice flour
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Water, as needed
  • Oil for deep frying
  • Lemon wedges and mint chutney (for serving)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Batter

  1. Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a large bowl, mix gram flour, rice flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, ginger-garlic paste, and salt.
  3. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients to form a thick, smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the fish pieces evenly.

2️⃣ Heat the Oil

  1. Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan or deep fryer.
  2. Heat the oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C) for optimal crispiness.

3️⃣ Fry the Fish Pakoras

  1. Dip each fish piece into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated.
  2. Carefully drop the coated fish pieces into the hot oil, frying in small batches.
  3. Fry for 4-5 minutes per batch, until the fish is golden brown and crispy.

4️⃣ Drain & Serve

  1. Remove the fried fish pakoras with a slotted spoon.
  2. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  3. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve hot with mint chutney.

5️⃣ Enjoy!

  • Serve with spiced yogurt dip, tamarind sauce, or ketchup.
  • Perfect for an evening snack or party appetizer!
Fish Pakora is a delicious South Asian seafood snack featuring bite-sized fish fillets coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter, deep-fried to golden perfection.
Fish pakoras

💡 Tips for the Best Fish Pakora

For extra crunch: Add 1 tbsp cornflour to the batter.
For enhanced flavour: Sprinkle with chaat masala before serving.
For a healthier option: Air fry instead of deep-frying.
For a spicy kick: Increase the red chili powder or add chopped green chilies.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
✅ Yes, but thaw and pat it dry before using to avoid excess moisture.

Q: Can I make Fish Pakoras ahead of time?
✅ Yes! Reheat them in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.

Q: What is the best oil for deep frying?
Vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil ensures a light and crispy texture.


📌 Loved this recipe? Share it & follow for more crispy and delicious snack ideas!