Moong Dal Pakora (Split Green Gram Fritters)

       
         
          These delicious Moong Dal Pakoras (Green Gram Fritters) are a perfect tea-time snack. They also serve as great appetizers to be relished with green chutney. There are numerous versions to it. The ingredients that goes into it depends on individual preference. This is my version, where I added some kalonji, sesame seeds and rice powder to give a bit of a different flavour and crunch to this delectable dish.

• 1 cup moong dal (split green gram), soaked overnight
• 2 tbsp. rice powder
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp. ginger, grated
• 1-2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tbsp. kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves), crushed
• salt to taste
• pinch of turmeric powder
• pinch of asafoetida
• 1/2 tsp. roasted cumin powder
• 1 tsp. kalonji (nigella seeds)
• 1 tsp. sesame seeds
• oil to deep fry 

          Grind the soaked moong dal coarsely adding very little water. In a bowl, mix along with the rice powder, onion, ginger, green chilies, kasuri methi, kalonji, sesame seeds and all the powdered masalas. Make a thick batter by adding required quantity of water.

          Beat well and keep aside for 10 minutes. Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonful of the batter, few at a time and fry till light golden colour on all sides. 

          Drain on a paper napkin and serve hot with any chutney or sauce as a tea-time snack.