How To Make Pakoras In OTG Oven: Learn The Full Baked Onion Pakora Recipe Here

Ah, the monsoon! That magical time when the skies open up, the air smells of wet earth, and every heart craves a steaming cup of chai paired with crispy, spicy pakoras. It's almost instinctive, isn't it? The moment the first raindrop hits the windowpane, our taste buds start dreaming of golden fritters and masala tea.

Who said pakoras need deep frying to be delicious? Try healthier baked pakora instead
Photo Credit: Pexels

But here's the catch, traditional pakoras, as delightful as they are, come with a deep dunk in hot oil. And while we'd love to indulge every time the clouds roll in, deep-fried treats aren't exactly the healthiest companions for frequent rainy-day cravings.

Also Read: 7 OTG Oven Do's and Don'ts Every Beginner Should Know

So, what if we told you there's a way to enjoy pakoras guilt-free? Yes, you read that right. You can bake them in your OTG oven and still get that satisfying crunch and flavour. No kadhai, no oil splatter, no post-snack guilt. Just pure joy.

How To Make Baked Onion Pakoras During Monsoon

Why Bake Pakoras?

Pair your baked pakoras with chai and let the rains do the rest
Photo Credit: Pexels

Baking pakoras isn't just about cutting down on oil. It's also about convenience and consistency. With an OTG oven, you get even cooking, less mess, and a batch of pakoras that are just as crispy and flavourful, minus the heaviness.

Plus, it's a great way to experiment with ingredients and textures. Think beyond the usual onion and potato. Add spinach, paneer, corn, or even leftover veggies from last night's dinner. The oven gives you the freedom to play.

Ingredients Required

Here's a basic list to get you started with onion pakoras. Feel free to customise based on what's in your fridge:

• 3-4 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
• 1–2 tbsp rice flour 
• 1 finely sliced onion
• A handful of coriander
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
• Salt to taste
• Water (just enough to bind)
• A drizzle of oil for brushing

How To Make Baked Pakoras in OTG

Comfort food reimagined: Savour baked pakoras with mint chutney
Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Preheat your OTG oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Add water just enough to make a sticky batter. It shouldn't be runny, just enough to hold together.
3. Spoon small portions of the batter onto the tray. You can shape them roughly with your fingers or use a spoon for neat rounds.
4. Brush the tops lightly with oil. This helps them brown and crisp up nicely.
5. Bake at 180°C for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them, the edges should turn golden and the centres should feel firm.
6. Optional: For extra crispiness, switch to the grill mode for the last 2–3 minutes.

Serve It Right

Now comes the best part: serving! Pair your baked pakoras with:

• Fresh mint chutney
• Tamarind sauce
• A steaming cup of masala chai
• Or even a bowl of curd with a sprinkle of chaat masala

You'll be surprised how satisfying this baked version is. The flavours shine through more clearly without being masked by oil, and the texture is delightfully crunchy.

Tips And Twists

Who said pakoras need deep frying to be delicious?
Photo Credit: Pexels

• Add grated carrots or beetroot for colour and nutrition.
• Use chickpea flour and oats for a fibre-rich version.
• If you have an air fryer, try air frying for similar results, even quicker.

Rainy days are meant for comfort, warmth, and a little indulgence. With baked pakoras, you get all of that without compromising on health. It's a small switch, but one that lets you enjoy your favourite monsoon snack more often and with a lot more joy.

So next time the clouds gather and the breeze turns cool, skip the kadhai and fire up your OTG. Your chai deserves a crunchy companion, and now you've got the perfect one. You can also look for your perfect companion online. There are various options available online to suit your daily needs and cravings. 

Explore Top OTGs Online For Daily Needs

1. WONDERCHEF 17-Litre Oven Toaster Grill (OTG)

2. iBELL 19-Litre Oven Toaster Grill (OTG)

3. MEWTO 28-Litre Oven Toaster Grill (OTG)

4. Pigeon 25-Litre with Rotisserie Oven Toaster Grill (OTG)

5. BAJAJ 20-Litre Oven Toaster Grill (OTG)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can pakoras be made without deep frying?

Yes! You can bake pakoras in an OTG oven for a healthier version that's still crispy and delicious.

2. How long do baked pakoras take in an OTG oven?

Typically, 10–15 minutes at 180°C, with a flip halfway through for even browning.

3. Do baked pakoras taste as good as fried ones?

Absolutely. While they're lighter, baked pakoras retain all the spice and crunch, especially with a brush of oil before baking.

4. What flour is best for baked pakoras?

Besan (gram flour) is traditional, but adding a bit of rice flour helps enhance crispiness.

5. Can I use an air fryer instead of an OTG oven?

Yes, air fryers work well too and may even reduce cooking time slightly.