Crispy Onion Bhajis (Onion Bhajias)

The good news is this delicious Crispy Onion Bhaji recipe is vegan, egg-free, gluten-free, nut-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free.

We honestly love bhajis, their crunchiness is outstanding, and they can be eaten alone as a snack or as a side with your favorite curry. As an added bonus, we think they’re the perfect accompaniment to go with Keralan Chicken Curry, Beef Rogan Josh, and Garlic Butter Rice.

Traditionally enjoyed as a starter or a tea-time snack, these savory onion fritters are a popular street food across India. The magic of onion bhajias lies in their simplicity and the harmony of flavors they bring together.

If you love Indian food, then you’ll love these too. They’re made with gram flour (besan, chickpea), onion bhajias are naturally gluten-free, making them accessible to those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions. However, they’re so versatile that if you don’t like gram flour, all-purpose flour can be used instead.

What’s To Love?

💕 Onion bhajias are typically vegan, making them an inclusive dish that can be enjoyed by people with different dietary preferences.
💕 Despite their complex flavor, onion bhajias are relatively easy to prepare.
💕 Yes, every ingredient is easy to find in any grocery store, supermarket, or online.
💕 Their delicious taste and appealing texture make onion bhajias a hit at gatherings and parties. They are sure to impress guests and are often one of the first dishes to disappear.
💕 The recipe for onion bhajias can be easily customized to suit personal tastes. Add more or less chili and experiment with different spice combinations.
💕 While traditionally deep-fried, onion bhajias can also be baked for a healthier alternative without sacrificing too much of their characteristic crunch.
💕 Is a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Onion Bhaji Origin

The origin of onion bhajias is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of India. They are known as onion pakoras or fritters, and are a beloved snack with roots deeply embedded all over India. They were and still are a popular street food and are now a staple in Indian cuisine, enjoyed across the country. And, now beloved worldwide served in Indian restaurants and homes.

The term “bhaji” or “bhajia” is derived from the Marathi and Gujarati languages, which are spoken in the western parts of India. It generally refers to fritters made from vegetables dipped in a seasoned batter and fried until crispy.

The term “bhaji” or “bhajia” is derived from the Marathi and Gujarati languages, which are spoken in the western parts of India. It generally refers to fritters made from vegetables dipped in a seasoned batter and fried until crispy.

Let’s Talk Ingredients

We feel every ingredient adds to the overall taste and texture; if you remove one, it’s like you’ve removed them all.

• Onions — use red onions to add sweetness.
• Flour — use gram flour, which is known as besan or chickpea flour, depending on where you live. Also, use corn flour (corn starch).
• Spices — use coriander, cumin, turmeric, Kashmiri chili powder, whole green chili, fresh ginger, fresh coriander leaves, and salt.
• Oil — use rice bran oil for its lightness or your favorite.

For more detailed ingredients, see the recipe card.

Customizations

Here are some foodie alternatives should you want to make some changes:

• Onions — use sweet onions.
• Flour — use all-purpose flour as an alternative.

Remember that substituting ingredients might differ in taste, texture, and overall result, particularly if you’re substituting many ingredients.

If you have made the Crispy Onion Bhaji with any customizations, we’d love to hear about it; please message us in the comments.

Instructions – Overview

Crispy Onion Bhaji is easy to make and is even easier to eat. Here’s a breakdown of how to get started on your baking journey (more detailed instructions are in the recipe card):

▶︎ Thinly sliced onions are mixed with a fragrant blend of gram flour, cornflour, and ground spices, including fresh coriander and whole chili, which, when combined, add depth to the flavor but also add vibrant color and texture.

▶︎ The mixture is left to sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture from the onions to help with the binding and flavor. Time is never wasted if you make your favorite dipping sauce during this waiting time.

▶︎ A little water is then added to form a thick consistency that should coat the back of a spoon. Adjust the water quantity if necessary; sometimes, you may only need a couple of tablespoons or none.

▶︎ You can deep fry them in a frying pan or use a deep fryer. You’ll need to add enough oil to submerge the bhajis fully. Drop small portions of the batter-coated onions into the hot oil using a spoon or your hands.

▶︎ Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. Fry the bhajis for about 4-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

▶︎ When cooked, remove the bhajis from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with a sprinkle of chaat masala or your favorite chutney or dipping sauce.

For more detailed instructions, notes, and ideas…see the recipe card.

Tools You’ll Need

Want to make the best Crispy Onion Bhajis? Using the correct equipment for preparation is essential; we think they’re a big helping hand. We understand that you might already have some of these kitchen tools to make this recipe, or you might want to use other tools and may not require our recommendations. Here are some of our suggestions to get you started:

• Frying Pan – to cook the onion bhajias.
• Mixing Bowl – to combine all the ingredients.
• Chopping Board – or use a food processor and use the slice setting to slice the onions.
• Garlic Press or mini chopper – to chop or mince the ginger.
• Slotted Spoon or skimmer spoon – to drain the oil off the bhajis and left them out of the pan.
• Paper Towels – to drain excess oil off the bhajis.
• Silicone Spatula – for stirring and incorporating all the ingredients smoothly.
• Weighing Scales and Measuring Spoons – to measure the ingredients accurately.

If you love those gadgets for this recipe, then you’ll love this Kitchenaid frying pan (skillet). It’s our go-to for many of our recipes, and we think every budding chef needs it.

Check out our favorite kitchen equipment that we love to use with all our recipes.

Storing

See our FAQs for detailed instructions on storing, refrigeration, freezing, and defrosting and for answers to readers’ questions.

Do you have a question? If so, let us know in the comments and we’ll reply within 24-48 hours and add your question to our FAQs if relevant.

Pairing

Crispy Onion Bhaji is frequently eaten as a standalone snack, but can easily be paired. Here are some suggestions and our favorite go-to’s what to eat with it:

▶︎ A cooling raita made with yogurt, chopped cucumber, and a sprinkle of cumin powder helps perfectly balance the spices in the bhajis. Or otherwise, mix yogurt with chopped mint, a pinch of salt, and a dash of roasted cumin powder for a simple yet delicious dip.

▶︎ A fresh and crunchy salad made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice adds a refreshing element to the meal.

▶︎ Serving onion bhajias alongside a rich curry creates a hearty and satisfying meal. Try Chicken Tikka Masala, Curried Bobotie or Caribbean Chicken Curry for something a little different. Or, a flavorful biryani paired with crispy bhajis offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, perfect for a festive meal.

▶︎ Popular in South Indian cuisine, this creamy coconut chutney made from grated coconut, green chilies, and tempered mustard seeds adds a mild and aromatic flavor.

▶︎ Serving onion bhajias with Buttery Naan Bread and a side of chutney can turn them into a more substantial meal.

More Recipes

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⭐️ Quick Tip: Read the recipe in its entirety before you start. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand. Voila…you’re all set to go!

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FAQ’s & Troubleshooting

By addressing these FAQs and troubleshooting tips, you can overcome common challenges and create a delicious batch of Crispy Onion Bhaji every time.

Your Questions Matter

Do you have a question? If so, let us know in the comments and we’ll reply within 24-48 hours and add your question to our FAQs if relevant. If you don’t already follow us, head over to our Twitter or Facebook to keep up to date with all our new recipes and articles.

For food safety top tips, check out USDA.gov.