Besan or Rice Flour: Which Should You Choose To Make Your Pakoras Crispier Every Time?

Besan vs Rice Flour: The monsoon season is synonymous with the irresistible allure of crispy, golden pakoras whose savoury flavours and satisfying crunch tantalise the taste buds, making them a quintessential rainy-day delight. Whether savored with a soothing cup of chai or a revitalising cup of coffee, pakoras have a way of bringing people together, creating moments of warmth and togetherness. However, achieving that perfect crunch can be a challenge. While besan is the traditional choice in Indian kitchens, some swear by rice flour as the secret to extra crispy pakoras.

But what's the science behind it? Does using rice flour alone hold the key to crunchier pakoras or can besan deliver that street-style texture on its own? As we delve into the world of pakora-making, let's explore the properties of besan and rice flour and examine the effects of using one or the other.

Besan For Pakoras

Besan, a staple in Indian kitchens is renowned for its binding properties and distinctive nutty flavour. While it's perfect for crafting hearty, filling pakoras, besan's tendency to absorb oil can leave them slightly soft. For classic onion or potato pakoras, besan is a reliable choice. However, achieving an extra crunchy texture may require complementing besan with another ingredient to enhance its natural benefits.

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Pakoras are a delihgtful monsoon treat to enjoy (Image Credits: Canva)

Rice Flour For Pakoras

Rice flour with its gluten-free and lightweight properties brings a unique advantage to pakora-making. It absorbs less oil while yielding a delicate, crispy crust that shatters with each bite. Adding even a small amount of rice flour to the batter significantly enhances texture, making pakoras lighter and crunchier. This secret ingredient is often employed by street vendors and restaurants to create irresistible, grease-free pakoras that delight the senses.

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Besan vs Rice Flour: Which Is Better?

The ultimate pakora solution lies in harmonising the strengths of besan and rice flour. By combining the two, you get the perfect balance of flavour, texture and crunch. Besan provides a robust, nutty flavour while rice flour adds a delicate, shattering crispness. This winning formula ensures that your pakoras are never soggy again, making every bite a delightful experience.