Indian Onion Bhaji Recipe
Indian Onion Bhaji is a crispy, flavorful snack made from thinly sliced onions coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. This popular street food from India offers a delightful combination of spices, herbs, and a satisfying crunch, perfect as an appetizer or a tea-time treat.
- Author: Amaya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 12 bhajis 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegan
Vegetables
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1 green hot chili pepper, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp parsley, chopped (or cilantro)
Batter
- 1 cup chickpea flour
- 1 Tbsp nutritional yeast (optional)
- 3/4 tsp ground cumin
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
For Frying
- 3 Tbsp oil (for frying, coconut oil recommended)
- Prepare Onions: Peel and slice the onions into thin strips using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Set aside.
- Make the Batter: In a medium to large mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, nutritional yeast (if using), ground cumin, salt, turmeric, water, and lime juice. Whisk together until you get a medium-thick batter. If it’s too thick, add water teaspoon by teaspoon to adjust consistency.
- Combine Onions and Batter: Stir the sliced onions and chopped chili pepper into the batter using your hands or a spoon, making sure the onions are fully and evenly coated.
- Heat Oil: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add at least one tablespoon of coconut oil.
- Fry Bhajis: Once the oil is hot, use tongs to drop small portions of the onion batter into the pan, cooking about four fritters at a time. Fry for 2-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat & Serve: Continue frying the remaining batter in batches. Drain the bhajis on paper towels if desired and serve hot as a snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Use coconut oil or another neutral oil with a high smoke point for best frying results.
- If you prefer less heat, omit or reduce the green chili pepper.
- Nutritional yeast is optional and adds a subtle cheesy flavor and extra nutrients.
- For a gluten-free diet, ensure chickpea flour is pure and uncontaminated.
- Serve with chutney or dipping sauce for enhanced flavor.
Keywords: Indian, Onion Bhaji, snack, fried fritters, chickpea flour, vegan, crispy, appetizer