Spinach Fritters: The Golden, Crispy Snack You Will Love to Enjoy in Winters

If you love snacks that are crispy outside, tender inside, and bursting with aromatic spices, Spinach Fritters are about to become your new favorite. These golden delights are perfect for rainy evenings, weekend tea-time gatherings, or when you simply want a quick homemade treat that brings comfort without requiring complicated techniques. With spinach providing earthiness and freshness, these fritters strike a balance between indulgence and wholesomeness that few snacks manage.

A Little History of Spinach Fritters in Indian Cooking

Spinach fritters, commonly known as palak pakora, are a classic across many Indian households. Their origins are woven into the history of pakoras themselves—deep-fried snacks that emerged hundreds of years ago as street food favorites along trade routes and bustling bazaars.

Spinach became a natural addition because of its abundance, quick cooking time, and compatibility with gram flour batter. Over centuries, regional versions evolved, from thin single-leaf fritters dipped in batter to chopped spinach fritters packed with spices. These fritters became symbolic of monsoon season, where families gathered around hot tea and fresh pakoras sizzling straight from the kadhai. Today, spinach fritters are cherished as an easy vegetarian snack that suits casual days and festive menus alike.

Servings

Makes 12–15 fritters (serves 3–4 people)

Ingredients Required

Vegetables & Greens

• 2 cups chopped fresh spinach (tightly packed)

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 2 green chillies, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp grated ginger

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)

• 2 tbsp rice flour (for extra crispiness)

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chilli powder

• ½ tsp cumin seeds

• ½ tsp ajwain (carom seeds)

• Salt to taste

For Frying

• Oil for deep frying

• Water as required

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Perfect Spinach Fritters

1. Prepare the Spinach Mixture

1. Wash the spinach thoroughly and chop it finely.

2. Add sliced onions, green chillies, and ginger to the chopped spinach.

3. Mix well and allow it to rest for 2–3 minutes.

   • This helps release moisture, reducing the need for extra water in the batter.

2. Make the Batter

1. Add gram flour, rice flour, turmeric, chilli powder, cumin seeds, ajwain, and salt to the spinach mixture.

2. Gently mix everything using your hands.

3. Add very little water—just enough to bind the mixture into a thick batter.

   • The key is to avoid a runny batter. Spinach fritters must hold shape when dropped into hot oil.

3. Heat the Oil

1. Heat oil in a kadhai or deep pan over medium flame.

2. Test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter:

   • If it sizzles and rises slowly, the temperature is perfect.

   • If it browns too quickly, lower the heat.

4. Fry the Fritters

1. Take small portions of batter and gently drop them into the oil.

2. Do not overcrowd the pan—leave space for them to expand.

3. Fry on medium heat until the fritters turn golden and crisp.

4. Flip them occasionally for even cooking.

5. Once crisp, remove onto a plate lined with absorbent paper.

5. Serve Hot

Serve the fritters immediately with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or even tomato ketchup. They pair perfectly with masala chai.

FAQs for Spinach Fritters

1. Can I bake or air-fry spinach fritters?

Yes, you can air-fry at 180°C for 12–15 minutes or bake at 200°C until golden, though they may be less crispy.

2. Why are my fritters turning oily?

If your oil is too cold or the batter is too watery, fritters absorb more oil. Fry on medium heat for best results.

3. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh. Spinach releases water over time, which can thin the batter.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Finely chopped methi, cabbage, or spring onions work beautifully with spinach.

5. How do I keep fritters crispy for long?

Add rice flour and fry slowly on medium flame. Avoid covering them after frying.

6. Are spinach fritters gluten-free?

Yes, they are naturally gluten-free since they use gram flour instead of wheat.

7. What can I serve with spinach fritters?

Chutneys, lemon wedges, and masala chai make the perfect combination.