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CuisineAsianIndianHigh-FiberLow-FatLow-SugarLow-CalorieUnder 1 HourUnder 45 MinutesSpecial OccasionStove TopDeep-FrySidesAppetizersVegetarianLow-CarbDairy-FreeComfort Food

Onion Bhajis

We’re celebrating Holi–a holiday celebrated across India on the last full moon day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month to mark the beginning of spring–by making these crispy, perfectly seasoned onion bhajis!

Aleya Zenieris & Amanda Berrill
Tasty Team
August 14, 2023
95% would make again
Total Time

40 minutes

40 min

Prep Time

5 minutes

5 min

Cook Time

18 minutes

18 min

Onion Bhajis
Total Time

40 minutes

40 min

Prep Time

5 minutes

5 min

Cook Time

18 minutes

18 min

Ingredients

for 24 bhajis

  • neutral oil, for frying
  • 3 medium yellow onions, halved
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for sprinkling
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 small green chile, seeded if desired, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 ½ cups chickpea flour (185 g)
  • 4 tablespoons water
  • Red and green chutney, for serving

Nutrition Info

  • Calories 55
  • Fat 1g
  • Carbs 8g
  • Fiber 3g
  • Sugar 2g
  • Protein 2g

Estimated values based on one serving size.

Preparation

  1. Fill a large pot fitted with a deep fry thermometer halfway with oil. Heat over medium heat until the temperature reaches 325°F (160˚C). Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and set nearby.
  2. Set a mandoline slicer to ¼ inch and place over a large bowl. Carefully slice the onions on the mandoline, letting them fall into the bowl below (alternatively, use a sharp knife to cut the onions into ¼-inch-thick slices and add to the bowl). Sprinkle the salt over the onions, toss to coat, and let sit for about 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Add the coriander, chili powder, cumin, and turmeric to the onions and use tongs to toss until evenly coated, using your hands to break up any pieces of onions still stuck together. Let sit for 15–30 minutes, until the onions have softened.
  4. Add the green chile and cilantro and toss to combine. Add ½ cup of the chickpea flour and toss to coat the onions. Add 2 tablespoons of water and continue to toss until the water is absorbed. Repeat with another ½ cup gram flour and 2 tablespoons water. Add the remaining ½ gram flour and toss until the onions are coated in a thick, homogeneous batter. If the batter is too clumpy, add 1–2 more tablespoons of water and toss until smooth.
  5. Use your hands to grab a small clump of the onion mixture (a bit smaller than a golf ball) and very carefully drop into the hot oil (don’t compact the clump too much; the edges should be somewhat scraggly and loose). Add 1–2 more clumps, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. The oil temperature should remain between 300-325°F (150-160˚C). Fry the bhajis for 3–5 minutes, flipping once or twice as needed for even browning, until deep golden brown in color. Use a spider or slotted spoon to transfer to the wire rack to drain. Immediately sprinkle with a bit of salt. Repeat with the remaining batter, letting the oil return to temperature between batches.
  6. Serve the onion bhajis with red and green chutney.
  7. Enjoy!
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Onion Bhajis