Meal Maker Pakoda (Soya Pakoda) is a crunchy, high-protein snack made using soaked soya chunks, gram flour, onions, and spices. It is a healthier alternative to regular pakodas as soya provides protein and a satisfying meaty bite. Perfect for evenings, kids’ lunchboxes, and rainy-day cravings.
Ingredients
- Meal maker / Soya chunks – 1 cup
- Onion – 1 (finely chopped)
- Green chillies – 2 (finely chopped)
- Ginger garlic paste – 1 tsp
- Gram flour (besan) – ½ cup
- Rice flour – 2 tbsp
- Red chilli powder – 1 tsp
- Turmeric – ¼ tsp
- Garam masala – ½ tsp
- Salt – as needed
- Curry leaves – few (chopped)
- Coriander leaves – 2 tbsp (chopped)
- Water – as needed
- Oil – for deep frying
Preparation
- Boil water, add soya chunks, cook 3–4 minutes, drain and squeeze water completely.
- Tear or chop the soya chunks into small pieces.
- Add chopped onion, green chillies, curry leaves, coriander, ginger garlic paste.
- Add besan, rice flour, salt, red chilli powder, turmeric, garam masala.
- Sprinkle little water and mix to form a thick pakoda mixture (not watery).
- Heat oil and drop small portions of the mixture.
- Fry on medium flame until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove and drain excess oil. Serve hot.
Tips
- Squeeze soya chunks fully; extra water makes pakoda soggy.
- Add rice flour for extra crispiness.
- Fry on medium flame for even cooking.
- Add chopped spinach for extra nutrition.
- You can air fry for a low-oil version.
Variations
- Mint Meal Maker Pakoda – add pudina for refreshing flavour.
- Spicy Version – add crushed black pepper and chilli flakes.
- No Onion Version – skip onion for festival/fasting days.
- Kids Version – reduce chilli and add a little chat masala.
Health Benefits
- High in plant-based protein.
- Good for muscle strength and energy.
- Contains fiber which supports digestion.
- More filling than regular pakoda, reducing overeating.
- Suitable snack for growing kids.