- Why isn't it binding?
- You didn't let the onion sit with the salt long enough. Squeeze it by hand to release the juices!
- Why is it oily?
- The oil was too cold. The batter soaked it up before cooking.
Onion Bhajis
The scent of Indian streets in a single bite. Onion Bhaji (or Pakora) is simply onion fried in a spicy gram flour batter. Crispy, spicy, and addictive. The secret lies in the onion's natural juices: no water is added, the onion's 'tears' bind the dough.
Ingredients
3
medium
Onions
150
g
Gram flour (Besan) - or plain flour
50
g
Rice flour
2
Green chillies (chopped)
1
bunch
Fresh coriander
2
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
1
tsp
Ground cumin
1
tsp
Garam masala
1
tsp
Salt
500
ml
Oil for frying
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Deep pan for frying
- Large mixing bowl
Allergen Information
Cereals containing gluten
Instructions
1
✓
Cut the onions in half, then into thin slices. Place in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and thoroughly 'massage' the salt in with your hands. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
Tip: The salt breaks down the onion's cell walls, releasing water (osmosis). This juice will replace added liquid, resulting in a much more intense flavour.
2
✓
Add the spices, chillies, garlic, and coriander. Mix well.
Tip: Add spices directly to the onions so their oils dissolve.
3
✓
Sprinkle over the two types of flour. Mix together (it may seem dry, but squeeze it together; the onion juice will absorb the flour). You should get a thick, sticky mass.
Tip: Rice flour is the secret ingredient: it makes the edges extra crispy, while gram flour gives the characteristic nutty taste.
4
✓
Heat the oil to 180°C. With wet hands or a spoon, drop rustic mounds into the oil. Don't make compact balls, keep them 'shaggy'.
Tip: The protruding onion strands fry the best; these will be the crispiest parts.
5
✓
Fry for 4-5 minutes until deep golden brown (almost dark brown). Drain well.
Tip: Gram flour needs more time to cook through than plain flour, otherwise, it remains raw and dusty tasting.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 3 medium Onions
- 150 g Gram flour (Besan) - or plain flour
- 50 g Rice flour
- 2 Green chillies (chopped)
- 1 bunch Fresh coriander
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Garam masala
- 1 tsp Salt
- 500 ml Oil for frying