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Indian Onion Bhaji Recipe

4.6 from 127 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Onions: Peel and slice the onions into thin strips using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Heat Oil: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add at least one tablespoon of coconut oil.
  5. 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.
  6. 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