Tarkari na Bhajia (Onion Bhajia) Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the crispy, spicy delights of Tarkari na Bhajia, also known as onion bhajia, to elevate your snacking game. Whether enjoyed as a tea-time treat or a party appetizer, these golden-brown fritters are a delightful combination of crispiness and savory goodness. Let’s dive into a mouthwatering recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients

To create the perfect Tarkari na Bhajia, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1/2 cup rice flour
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Water, as needed
• Oil for deep frying

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Onions: Begin by thinly slicing the onions. This step is crucial as the onions will not only provide flavor but also moisture to the batter. You want them to be thin enough to create that perfect crispiness.

2. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, add the gram flour, rice flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, ajwain, and salt. If you like an herbal touch, sprinkle in some fresh cilantro. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

3. Incorporate the Onions and Water: Add the sliced onions and chopped green chilies to the bowl. Mix everything together, and gradually add water to form a thick batter. The consistency should allow the flour to coat the onions without being too runny. Just enough water to bind everything together will suffice.

4. Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the top, your oil is perfect for frying.

5. Fry the Bhajia: Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter-coated onions into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the bhajias turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally for even cooking.

6. Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the bhajias from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. This step helps maintain their crispy texture.

7. Plating: Serve your Tarkari na Bhajia hot, paired with a tangy mint chutney or sweet tamarind chutney. The combination of flavors will elevate your taste experience.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Onions: For the best results, use sweet onions like Vidalia or red onions. Their natural sweetness balances perfectly with the spices.

• Texture Matters: Achieving a crispy texture is essential. The blend of rice flour in the batter contributes crunchiness, so don’t skip it!

• Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is key. If the oil is too hot, the bhajias will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, they will absorb excess oil, making them greasy.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter a few hours ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge before frying.

Variations and Substitutions

For those looking to cater to different dietary preferences, here are a few variations:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute gram flour with gluten-free flour blends, and ensure that the rice flour is also certified gluten-free for those with sensitivities.

• Vegetable Bhajia: Fret not, if onions aren’t your thing! You can substitute or mix in shredded potatoes, spinach, or even cauliflower for a delightful twist.

• Spicy Bhajia: If you’re craving something bolder, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

Tarkari na Bhajia can be enjoyed in numerous ways! Aside from the condiments mentioned earlier, pairing them with a refreshing cucumber salad or a serving of yogurt can provide a lovely balance to the spice. Perfect for gatherings, they serve as an excellent party snack that keeps guests coming back for more.

Imagine taking that first bite—the crispy, golden exterior giving way to the tender, spiced onion within! The flavors unfold beautifully, and the satisfaction is undeniable.

For those culinary enthusiasts looking to expand their repertoire, consider exploring more recipes that celebrate Indian street food or experimenting with other vegetables for fritters. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations as you dive into this delightful cooking adventure!