Ribbon Pakora | Ola Pakkavada (Baked & Fried version)

Ribbon Pakora or commonly known as pakavada /ola pakavada/tape pakavada  in Kerala is a crisp snack which can be served with tea.This can be prepared in no time and with very less efforts.We all love this snack a lot and so made these.I always tried the fried version and so had started avoiding this snack as its deep fried.But now for a change ,I have started trying out the baked version of these pakoras.It was a very successful effort,they were very crisp just like the fried version(see pics below the broken bits are baked).The only drawback what I felt is a slight change in the taste,the baked ones had a milder taste compared to the fried ones.The oil adds taste to the deep fried ones and that was the only missing in the baked batch.However,If you are health conscious and would love to avoid deep frying,you can always go ahead & try the baked version.And I tried both baked & fried version,a batch each and kids enjoyed the fried ones while we enjoyed the baked !!

(Fried version)

Ingredients
rice flour 1.5 cups
kadalamavu/besan/ gram flour 1 cup
chilly powder 3/4 -1.5 tbsp
asafoetida /hing /kayam podi 1/2 tsp
salt
oil 2 tsp
curry leaves 2 -3 sprigs

For frying
oil for deep frying

(Baked Vs.Fried)

Method
-Mix both the flours together without any lumps.Add salt,chilly powder,asafoetida ,oil (2 tsp)and mix.
-Add in half cup water (or more ) and make a smooth dough.
-Take a idiyappam press or mould with the pakora cutter/plate in it.Add the dough in it,close.
FOR FRYING VERSION-
-Heat oil in a wok and when oil is hot.Press down the mould in the oil in circular motion until filled.
-Turn both sides of pakora with a slotted spoon and fry till golden brown.
-Fry the curry leaves and add.
-Serve with tea !!

FOR BAKED VERSION-
-Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line tray with parchment paper.
-Press the idiyappam press in a single line and leaving space in between.

-Bake in the oven for 12-14 mins ,turn and bake the other side for 7-10 mins until  crisp and moving in the tray.
-Break in pieces and serve!!

(Baked Version)

Servings ~  a large bowl

NOTES
* Adding fried curry leaves increases the flavor .
* Baking time totally depends on the thickness of the pakoras and the type of plates you are using.Please keep a close watch on this.
* Chilly powder can be increased depending on your taste buds.