Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the onions: Place the sliced onions in a bowl and sprinkle with ½ tsp salt. Toss to coat and let them sit for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess water, which is crucial for preventing oil splatter and ensuring crispy bhajias.
- Squeeze dry: After resting, use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze the onions firmly. You want to remove as much liquid as possible without crushing the rings completely. Discard the pooled liquid.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, rice flour (if using), turmeric, red chili powder, and cumin seeds. Whisk them together to ensure even distribution of spices.
- Add aromatics: Add the squeezed onions, chopped green chilies, and fresh cilantro to the dry mixture. Toss gently until the onions are evenly coated with the spice mix.
- Make the batter: Gradually add cold water to the onion-spice mixture, a little at a time. Stir vigorously. The goal is a thick, coating consistency—thicker than pancake batter but pourable enough that it coats the back of a spoon. If it’s too runny, add more gram flour; if too stiff, add a teaspoon of water.
- Heat the oil: In a deep, heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a tiny bit of batter into it. If it rises to the surface immediately and sizzles gently, it’s ready. If it sinks, wait longer. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the bhajias: Carefully scoop a tablespoon or two of the onion mixture into the hot oil, letting it slide off your spoon to form a loose fritter. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches.
- Cook until golden: Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon, until they are deep golden brown and crispy on all sides. The gram flour should be cooked through (no raw flour taste) and the onions tender but not mushy.
- Drain and serve: Remove bhajias from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.
Nutrition
Notes
I make these whenever I need a quick, savory treat that pairs perfectly with chai or as a starter. The secret is salting the sliced onions beforehand and squeezing out excess water; it prevents splattering and ensures every bite holds together without turning greasy.