Crispy Gobi 65 or Cauliflower 65 is a tasty and popular South Indian snack or appetizer known for its crispy texture and spicy flavours. This popular vegetarian dish features cauliflower florets coated in a perfectly seasoned batter, deep-fried to golden perfection, and then tossed in a fragrant tempering of garlic,...

Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
50min
Gobi 65 recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 plate)
  • 1piece
    Cauliflower (300 gm floret)
  • 1 1/2tsp
    Salt (divided)
  • 1/2tsp
    Turmeric powder
  • 1/2cup
    Rice Flour
  • 1/2cup
    Cornflour
  • 1 1/2tbsp
    Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder
  • 1/2tsp
    Garam Masala powder
  • 1tsp
    Cumin Powder
  • 1tsp
    Black Pepper Powder (freshly ground)
  • 1tbsp
    Ginger Garlic paste
  • 2sprigs
    Curry leaves (finely chopped)
  • 1tbsp
    Lemon juice
  • 3tbsp
    Yogurt
  • 1tbsp
    Oil
  • Water (as required for batter)
  • Oil (for frying)

For Tempering

  • 2tbsp
    Oil
  • 1tbsp
    Garlic (finely chopped)
  • 4piece
    Green Chillies (slit)
  • 2piece
    Dry Red Chillies (broken)
  • 1sprig
    Curry leaves

How to make Gobi 65

  1. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Soak them in water with ½ tsp salt and turmeric for about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    Step 1.1: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets

Make the Batter

  1. Combine rice flour, cornflour, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, salt, cumin powder, and freshly ground black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.

    Step 2.1: Combine rice flour, cornflour, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, salt, cumin powder, and freshly ground black pepper in a large mixing bowl
  2. Add the ginger-garlic paste, chopped curry leaves, lemon juice, yogurt and oil. Gradually add water to form a thick, smooth batter that can just coat the cauliflower florets.

    Step 2.1: Add the ginger-garlic paste, chopped curry leaves, lemon juice, yogurt and oil
  3. Taste the batter and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Coat the Cauliflower

  1. Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, mixing well to ensure they are evenly coated. Set them aside for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

    Step 3.1: Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, mixing well to ensure they are evenly coated

For Frying

  1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat (approx. 170°C/340°F). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small portion of the batter into it; it should sizzle and rise to the surface without browning.

  2. Add the coated florets to the hot oil in batches. Do not disturb them for the first few minutes to prevent sticking. Gently flip them over and fry until they turn golden and crisp.

    Step 4.1: Add the coated florets to the hot oil in batches
    Step 4.2: Add the coated florets to the hot oil in batches
  3. Remove the fried florets and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

  4. For an extra crispy texture, briefly flash fry the florets in hot oil for a second time for a few seconds. Transfer them onto paper towels to soak up any excess oil.

For Tempering

  1. In a separate pan, heat 2 tbsp oil. Sauté the chopped garlic until it turns lightly golden.

  2. Add the green chilies, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. Fry for a few seconds until fragrant.

    Step 5.1: Add the green chilies, dry red chilies, and curry leaves
  3. Add the fried cauliflower florets, and stir quickly to coat them with the fragrant tempering.

  4. Serve Gobi 65 hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful dish.

Tips & Tricks

  1. To keep your Gobi 65 crispy, fry the florets in advance and temper them just before serving as they can become slightly soggy if left sitting for too long.

  2. When frying the cauliflower, avoid disturbing it initially to prevent sticking. Flip only after the florets start to cook.

  3. Adjust the amount of chili based on your spice preference.

  4. For a softer texture, skip the flash-frying step.

  5. Mix a little yogurt into the tempering before adding the fried florets for a tangy finish.

FAQS

  1. How can I make Gobi 65 in advance and keep it crispy?

    You can prepare Gobi 65 in advance by frying the cauliflower florets ahead of time. Just temper them with garlic, chillies, and curry leaves just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. This way, they won't get soggy before your guests arrive.

  2. What are some healthy alternatives to deep frying Gobi 65?

    If you're looking for a healthier option, you can bake the coated cauliflower florets in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. While this won't give you the exact same texture as deep frying, it's a great way to enjoy Gobi 65 with less oil.

  3. Can I adjust the spice level in my Gobi 65 recipe?

    Absolutely! To make Gobi 65 less spicy, simply reduce the amount of chilli powder and omit the green chillies in the tempering. Adding a touch of sugar to the batter can also help balance out the heat, making it more palatable for those who prefer milder flavors.

  4. What is the best way to store leftover Gobi 65?

    To store leftover Gobi 65, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days. To reheat, you can bake it in the oven to regain some of its crispiness rather than microwaving, which may make it soggy.

  5. What dips or sides pair well with Gobi 65?

    Gobi 65 is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with mint chutney, yogurt dip, or ketchup. It also complements rice dishes, biryani, or naan, making it a versatile side for any meal.

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Leena Kohli

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