Pakora Kadhi: A Comforting Indian Yogurt Curry

When I'm looking for comfort, nothing soothes me like the Indian Pakora Kadhi. A simple yogurt-based curry that adds depth of flavor with its tempering, this dish is my go-to for warmth on a winter evening.

Kadhi, with or without Pakora, is a quintessential Indian dish that embodies comfort and flavor. This yogurt-based gravy-like curry is a perfect balance of tangy and savory, made with wholesome ingredients that are both nourishing and delicious.

At its heart, kadhi features yogurt whisked with chickpea flour (besan), which lends it a silky texture and slight thickness. The magic lies in the tempering—a fragrant medley of Indian spices like mustard seeds, fenugreek, dried red chilies, and curry leaves, sizzled in hot oil or ghee to release their vibrant aromas. The tempered spices infuse the yogurt curry with a delightful depth of flavor.

A classic accompaniment to kadhi is pakora or pakoda, fritter-style dumplings also made from chickpea flour. These crispy morsels are traditionally made with onions, spinach, or other vegetables, and then deep-fried to golden perfection. When added to the kadhi, pakoras absorb the luscious curry, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Kadhi Pakora is typically served over steamed basmati rice, offering a bowl dish of simplicity and aromatic allure worth savoring.