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Vegetable Pakoras (Fritters)

Ingredients: 3 ounces all-purpose flour (about 2/3 cup) 2 teaspoons Madras curry powder 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup water 1 large egg, lightly beaten (or egg substitute equivalent) 3/4 cup (1/4-inch) diced peeled sweet potato 1 cup (1/4-inch) pieces cauliflower 1/2 cup finely diced onion 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro 1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely diced 3 tablespoons peanut oil, divided

Directions: Weigh or lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour, curry powder, cumin, and salt, stirring with a whisk. Combine 1/3 cup water and egg, stirring with a whisk. Add egg mixture to flour mixture; stir until smooth. Cover; let stand 10 minutes.

Place sweet potato in a small saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until just tender. Drain and cool to room temperature. Add sweet potato, cauliflower, onion, cilantro, garlic, and jalapeño to flour mixture; stir until well combined (batter will be very thick).

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons oil to pan, swirling to coat. Drop 2 tablespoons batter into pan, and flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Repeat procedure to make 6 pakoras. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 4 minutes on each side or until browned. Remove from pan; drain on paper towels. Repeat procedure with remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil and batter.