WINE & FOOD AFFAIR RECIPES

Appetizers


Fall Squash Pakoras with Plum Chutney

Jigar Wines

6615 Front Street
Forestville, CA 95436
jigarwines.com

A deep-fried fritter made of fall squash and dipped in a chickpea batter, pakoras are served as an appetizer or a snack in Indian cuisine. Pair with plum chutney and Peter's Vineyard Pinot Noir.

Ingredients:
  • 1/2 butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup chickpea flour
  • 2 tablespoons corn flour
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1 onion, julienned
  • 3/4 cup water
  • Oil for frying
  • Plum chutney for serving

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Open a bottle of Jigar’s Peter’s Vineyard Pinot Noir. 

Spread the butternut squash on a baking sheet and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the salt. Roast until tender, about 15 minutes. Set aside.
                                                                                                      
In a large bowl, combine the chickpea flour, corn flour, curry powder, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, onion and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt and stir until well combined. Slowly add the water, mixing to form a smooth paste; it should be just thick enough to cover the back of a spoon. Let stand for about 10 minutes, allowing the mixture to absorb onto itself, then stir in the roasted butternut squash.

In a deep cast-iron pot over medium heat, pour in frying oil to a depth of 2 to 3 inches and heat until hot. Line a plate with a clean kitchen towel. 

When the oil is ready, drop spoonfuls of the pakora mixture into the oil and fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Using a slotted spoon, lift out the pakoras, draining off any excess oil, and place on the towel-lined plate.

Serve the pakoras with plum chutney and Jigar’s Peter’s Vineyard Pinot Noir.

Jigar Wines

6615 Front Street
Forestville, CA 95436
jigarwines.com