Drumstick flower pakoda (drumstick flower fritters)

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes.
Frying time: 7-8 minutes(each batch)
Total time: 18 minutes.

The rainy season always brings with it the perfect opportunity to sit back, relax in the verandah, and enjoy the soothing sound of raindrops. On such a day, nothing pairs better with a hot cup of tea than a plate of crispy “Drumstick flower pakoda (drumstick flower fritters)”.

In many parts of South India and Bihar, drumstick flowers are cherished as a seasonal delicacy, often added to Stir-Fries, or even cooked with lentils for their unique flavour and health benefits.

Making pakodas from these blossoms is a creative twist that transforms a humble, traditional ingredient into a delightful snack. It reflects the age-old Indian culinary wisdom of using every part of the drumstick tree; from pods to leaves to flowers, celebrating nature’s abundance with taste and nourishment.

It is the charm of seasonal cooking, where ingredients are at their freshest. Served hot with Green Chutney or simply with tea.

Not only ‘Drumstick’ rather ‘Drumstick flower’ laden with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and amino acid; help to build immunity, prevent weakness, anemia, poor eyesight’s and body ache, hence keep yourself healthy and fit with drumstick.

Ingredients:

Drumstick flower: 100-150 gm.
Onion: 1 no. (Medium size)
Garlic: 5-6 flakes
Ginger: 2” piece
Green chilli: 2 no.
Coriander leaves: 20 gm.
Ajwain (carom seeds): half teaspoon
Besan (gram flour): half cup
Meetha soda (Soda bi carb): 1 pinch
Salt: half teaspoon
Oil: for deep frying

Preparation:

Remove hard stem from the flower, chop green chilli, ginger, garlic, coriander leaves and onion into small pieces.
Take a bowl. Put Besan, drumstick flower, salt, onion, green chilli, ginger, garlic, all other ingredients except baking soda, and Mix it well; keep aside for 15-20 minutes. Now add baking soda. Mix it well again. (Add few drops of water if required.)Now, pakoda batter is ready.

Method:

Take heavy bottom pan/fry pan, heat oil in it. Let oil to smoke. Drop small size batter in it. (Either helps of your hand or spoon) If batter comes up, it means right temperature of oil otherwise wait for a while and test again.
After getting right temperature of oil, deep fry all pakoda on medium flame (size of your choice) for about 3-4 minutes or till golden brown. Keep aside. Repeat this till all batter is finished.
Drumstick flower pakoda (drumstick flower fritters) is good for evening snacks.