Onion Bhaji Recipe: A Delicious Indian Snack

Introduction

Onion Bhaji is a classic Indian snack that’s perfect for any occasion. These crispy fritters are made with sliced onions and a spicy chickpea flour batter that’s deep-fried until golden brown. Onion Bhaji is a popular snack in India and is often served with mint or tamarind chutney. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make Onion Bhaji at home in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Onion Bhaji for 4 portions:

• 2 medium onions, sliced thinly
• 1 cup chickpea flour
• 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. turmeric
• 1/2 tsp. cumin
• 1/2 tsp. coriander
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• Oil for frying

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your own Onion Bhaji:

1. In a large bowl, mix chickpea flour, baking powder, salt, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper.

2. Gradually add water to the bowl and whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

3. Add the thinly sliced onions to the batter and stir until coated.

4. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

5. Drop spoonfuls of the onion mixture into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

6. Remove the onion bhajis with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

7. Serve hot with chutney or ketchup.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option

Onion Bhaji is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly snack that’s perfect for those following a plant-based diet. To make the recipe vegan, simply substitute vegetable oil for the frying oil.

Gluten-Free Option

This recipe is already gluten-free as it uses chickpea flour instead of wheat flour. However, be sure to check the label on your baking powder to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Tips for Serving

Onion Bhaji is a versatile snack that can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve with mint or tamarind chutney.
• Sprinkle with chaat masala for an extra burst of flavor.
• Top with chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
• Serve as a side dish with your favorite Indian curry.

Conclusion

Onion Bhaji is a delicious and easy-to-make Indian snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create crispy and flavorful fritters that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or as a side dish, Onion Bhaji is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy.

FAQ

What are Onion Bhajis?

Onion Bhajis are a popular Indian snack made with sliced onions, gram flour, and spices, which are then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown.

What type of onions should I use for Onion Bhajis?

You can use any type of onion for Onion Bhajis, but we recommend using red onions for their sweet and mild flavor.

Can I make Onion Bhajis without deep-frying?

Yes, you can make Onion Bhajis without deep-frying by baking them in the oven. However, they will not be as crispy as the deep-fried version.

What is gram flour and where can I find it?

Gram flour, also known as besan, is a flour made from ground chickpeas. You can find it in most grocery stores or online.

Can I make Onion Bhajis ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Onion Bhajis ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or air fryer before serving. However, they are best served fresh and hot.

What should I serve with Onion Bhajis?

Onion Bhajis are traditionally served with mint chutney or tamarind chutney. You can also serve them with yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice.

How long do Onion Bhajis stay fresh?

Onion Bhajis are best eaten fresh and should be consumed within a few hours of cooking. However, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat them before serving.

Can I freeze Onion Bhajis?

Yes, you can freeze Onion Bhajis by placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag and storing them in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven or air fryer until crispy and hot.

Can I use other vegetables instead of onions?

Yes, you can use other vegetables such as spinach, potatoes, or cauliflower to make fritters similar to Onion Bhajis. Simply slice or grate the vegetables and mix them with gram flour and spices before frying.

Are Onion Bhajis vegan?

Yes, Onion Bhajis are vegan as they are made with chickpea flour, onions, and spices, and are typically deep-fried in vegetable oil.