‘Pakodas’: Back Where They Belong, On Your Plates, Not Politics

Put aside the negativity brought to pakodas since PM Modi’s remark and look at the brighter, crispier side!

Pakoda or Politics?

(Photo: The Quint)

What is winter without ek pyali chai and garma-garam pakode! And what are pakodas if they aren’t from the legendary Khandani Pakoda Wala!

Located at Nauroji Nagar is a humble shack, serving lip-smacking fritters or pakode since 1962! It was founded by Mr Balram and is now run by his grandsons and great grandsons. They serve around 500 customers, daily, a number which often shoots up to 600 during the weekends. Prateek Dhingra is very proud of his lineage and has his own ideas for the future.

They have 17 different types of pakode! From the tried and ‘tasted’ ones like the paneer and bread pakoda to the unknown and never-heard-of lotus stem pakoda. The lotus stem or bhee is most commonly used in Asian cooking. It is very popular in Punjab and Sindh. In Kashmir, it is known as Nadaer Monj, and is sold as a popular street food.

You have an array of fritters to choose from. From the unusual lotus stem, seekh pakode (mashed potato and peas) and soya chaap, baigan ka pakoda, karele ka pakoda (bitter gourd) to the regular and unchanging ones like pyaz ka pakoda, aloo pakoda, palak pakoda, and all-time favourites like mirchi pakoda.

Yummy paneer pakode at display.Photo: (The Quint)

Soya Chaap, one of the many high selling pakode.(Photo: The Quint)

Apart from their variety and sumptuous taste, another thing that sets them apart from any other pakode walas is that they are very light on your tummy and you would never feel heavy after having them. No wonder you end up popping them in your mouth like popcorn!

Where: Nauroji Nagar, near Sarojini nagar, New Delhi
Pocket Pinch: Rs 24/head
Video Editor: Rahul Sanpui