Kachoris with a variety of fillings are a staple on festive occasions in Indian households and are loved for their rich flavour and crisp texture. However, being deep-fried, they are often avoided by health-conscious individuals and fitness enthusiasts. For those who wish to enjoy this traditional snack without guilt, a healthier version of Dahi Kachori offers the perfect solution.

This no-fry Dahi Kachori recipe, shared by Chef Pankaj Bhadouria, is prepared without refined flour and requires only a small amount of pure ghee. The use of curd and paneer adds nutritional value, making it both wholesome and satisfying, while retaining the authentic taste of the dish.

Recipe Highlights

• No deep frying required

• Made without refined flour (maida)

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 10 minutes

• Serves: 3–4 people

Ingredients

For the outer layer:

• 1 cup semolina (suji)

• 1 tsp red chilli flakes

• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

• 1 tbsp desi ghee

• Salt to taste

For the stuffing:

• 1 cup thick hung curd

• 50 g paneer (grated)

• 1 tbsp finely chopped green chilli

• 1 tsp red chilli flakes

• 1 finely chopped onion

• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

• 2 tbsp cornflour

• Salt to taste

Method

To prepare the outer layer, boil one cup of water with salt, red chilli flakes, coriander leaves and ghee. Once the water comes to a boil, add semolina gradually while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Lower the heat, mix well and turn off the flame. Cover the mixture and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes.

Once slightly cooled, knead the mixture for 5–6 minutes until it forms a soft, non-sticky dough.

For the filling, combine hung curd and grated paneer in a bowl. Add green chillies, cornflour, red chilli flakes, chopped onion, coriander leaves and salt. Mix thoroughly to form a smooth stuffing.

Divide the dough into 10 equal portions. Flatten each portion, add the prepared filling, seal carefully and gently shape into kachoris.

Heat an appe pan and grease each mould lightly with ghee. Place the kachoris in the pan and cook on medium heat, turning occasionally, until they are golden and crisp on all sides.

Serving Suggestions

The no-fry Dahi Kachoris turn out crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve them hot with green chutney and sweet tamarind chutney. They make a healthy snack option and can also be served to guests.

If an appe pan is not available, the kachoris can be cooked in a greased cooker or kadhai, similar to the method used for preparing litti.