Indian Onion Bhaji

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Onion Bhaji is a savory, crispy delight with a burst of flavor in every bite. The chickpea flour batter gives these fritters a unique texture, while the spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric provide warmth and depth of flavor. They’re easy to make, vegetarian, and can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Pair them with a cooling yogurt-based dip or your favorite chutney, and you’ve got a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with bold flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 1 cup chickpea flour (also known as besan)

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for extra crispiness)

• Salt, to taste

• 2 tablespoons rice flour or cornflour (optional, for extra crunch)

• 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

• 2 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency)

• Vegetable oil for deep frying (about 2 cups)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the onions: Place the thinly sliced onions in a large mixing bowl. Add a pinch of salt and mix them around with your hands. Let the onions sit for 10-15 minutes. This will release some of their moisture and help them soften a little.

2. Make the batter: Add the chickpea flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, baking soda, and rice flour (if using) to the onions. Mix well to combine. The onions will release more moisture as they sit, helping to form the batter.

3. Add water: Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of water, just enough to create a thick batter that coats the onions. You want the mixture to hold together but not be too watery. The onions should be coated in the batter without being overly soggy.

4. Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small bit of the batter into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

5. Fry the bhajis: Using your hands or a spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the onion mixture into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry the bhajis in batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the bhajis are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.

6. Drain excess oil: Once the bhajis are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

7. Serve and enjoy: Serve your Onion Bhajis hot with a side of mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or a simple yogurt dip for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people (as a snack or appetizer)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus resting time)

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Onion Bhaji: Add extra green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicier version.

• Herb-Infused: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or curry leaves for added freshness and flavor.

• Vegetable Bhaji: Add chopped vegetables like spinach, potatoes, or peas to the onion mixture for a more filling version of the bhaji.

• Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but for extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of vegan yogurt to the batter.

Storage/Reheating

Onion Bhajis are best enjoyed fresh, as they can lose their crispiness when stored. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy again. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat to maintain some of their crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I make Onion Bhaji ahead of time?

While Onion Bhaji is best served fresh, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just heat the oil and fry them up.

Can I use regular flour instead of chickpea flour?

Chickpea flour (besan) gives the bhajis a distinct texture and flavor. While you can use all-purpose flour in a pinch, the result won’t have the same crispiness or authentic taste.

How can I make Onion Bhaji spicier?

If you like more heat, you can add finely chopped green chilies to the batter or increase the chili powder. You can also serve the bhajis with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.

Can I bake Onion Bhaji instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the bhajis for a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the bhajis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While they won’t be as crispy as deep-fried bhajis, they will still be delicious.

Can I freeze the bhajis?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked bhajis. After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, fry the frozen bhajis directly from the freezer for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Conclusion

Indian Onion Bhaji is a classic snack or appetizer that’s full of bold, savory flavors. The combination of crispy onions and a spiced chickpea flour batter makes these fritters a perfect snack to enjoy with friends and family. Serve them with your favorite chutney or yogurt dip for a complete, satisfying treat. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a crunchy snack, these Onion Bhajis are sure to be a hit every time!

Indian Onion Bhaji

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Indian Onion Bhaji is a crispy, flavorful fritter made with thinly sliced onions, chickpea flour, and a blend of aromatic spices. Deep-fried until golden brown, these savory snacks are perfect for pairing with mint chutney or tamarind sauce. A popular appetizer or snack in Indian cuisine, Onion Bhajis are easy to make, vegetarian, and bursting with bold flavors. Whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, these crispy bhajis are sure to impress with their crunchy texture and delicious taste.

• Author: Catherine
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 people
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for extra crispiness)

• Salt, to taste

• 2 tablespoons rice flour or cornflour (optional, for extra crunch)

• 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

• 2 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency)

• Vegetable oil for deep frying (about 2 cups)

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Instructions

• Prepare the onions: Place the thinly sliced onions in a large bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and mix with your hands. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release moisture and soften.

• Make the batter: Add chickpea flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, baking soda (optional), and rice flour (optional) to the onions. Mix well.

• Add water: Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of water to form a thick batter that coats the onions. Be sure not to add too much water—just enough to hold the mixture together.

• Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter into it—if it sizzles, it’s ready.

• Fry the bhajis: Drop spoonfuls of the onion mixture into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally.

• Drain excess oil: Remove the bhajis from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

• Serve and enjoy: Serve the Onion Bhajis hot with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or a yogurt-based dip.

Notes

For extra spice, add more chili powder or green chilies to the batter.You can also mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or curry leaves for added freshness.To make a more filling version, add chopped vegetables like spinach, peas, or potatoes.If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can bake the bhajis at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.