Onion Bhajis with Coriander Dip: A Crispy, Flavorful Snack for Every Occasion

There’s something incredibly comforting about crispy, spiced onion bhajis straight from the pan, golden and full of rich, aromatic flavors. Whether you’re making them as a snack, an appetizer, or a side for your favorite curry, these onion bhajis are an absolute treat. They are light, crispy, and packed with layers of flavor from fragrant Indian spices. The best part? They’re easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and they taste even better than the ones from a restaurant or store.

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If you’ve never made onion bhajis before, don’t worry—this recipe is perfect for beginners. The batter comes together quickly, and frying them to crispy perfection is simpler than you might think. Plus, they pair beautifully with a fresh coriander dip that balances the deep, warming spices with a bright, tangy contrast. This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for a variety of dietary needs. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can have a batch of homemade onion bhajis ready to serve and impress your guests or enjoy as a personal indulgence.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners

• Simple ingredients: Most of the spices and ingredients are pantry staples, making this an accessible recipe for home cooks.
• Quick to prepare: The batter comes together in minutes, and frying them is straightforward.
• No deep frying required: A shallow fry in a pan ensures a crispy texture without the hassle of deep frying.
• Vegan and gluten-free: A perfect snack for those with dietary restrictions, using gram flour for a naturally gluten-free batter.
• Pairs well with various dips: While the coriander dip is a fantastic match, you can also serve these with mango chutney, raita, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients and Preparation

Bhajis:

• 2 large red onions
• 3/4 cup (100g) gram flour (also known as chickpea flour)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water

Coriander Dip:

• 3/4 cup (40g) fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2-inch piece of ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 green chili (adjust spiciness by removing seeds if desired)
• 1 heaped tablespoon coconut yogurt

Ingredient Substitutes and Variations

• Onions: Red onions add a mild sweetness, but white or yellow onions work well too. Shallots can be used for a more delicate flavor.
• Flour: Gram flour is essential for the texture, but if unavailable, a mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch can be a backup option.
• Spices: Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or ground coriander for extra depth.
• Dip: If you’re not a fan of coconut yogurt, replace it with regular yogurt or even sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions
   • Peel and cut the onions in half lengthwise. Slice them into thin rings and separate the layers. The thinner the slices, the crispier the bhajis will be.
2. Make the Batter
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, curry powder, garam masala, cumin, garlic powder, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
   • Add the water gradually while whisking to form a thick batter. It should be thick enough to coat the onions but not too runny.
3. Coat the Onions
   • Add the sliced onions to the batter, mixing well to ensure they are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes while you heat the oil.
4. Heat the Oil
   • Pour vegetable oil into a large non-stick frying pan, just enough to create a shallow layer for frying. Heat over medium-high until the oil is hot. To test, drop a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises, it’s ready.
5. Fry the Bhajis
   • Scoop a tablespoon of the onion mixture and gently place it in the oil. Repeat until the pan is filled but not overcrowded.
   • Fry each bhaji for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once until golden brown and crispy.
   • Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined baking tray to absorb excess oil. If cooking in batches, keep the finished bhajis warm in a low-temperature oven.
6. Make the Coriander Dip
   • Juice the lime, roughly chop the ginger and garlic, and place all dip ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a small bowl.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   • Serve the crispy onion bhajis hot with the coriander dip on the side.

Beginner Tips and Troubleshooting

• Getting the batter consistency right: If the batter is too thick, add a splash of water. If it’s too runny, sprinkle in more gram flour. It should coat the onions well without dripping off excessively.
• Ensuring crispy bhajis: Don’t overcrowd the pan—too many bhajis at once will lower the oil temperature and make them greasy rather than crispy.
• Preventing soggy bhajis: Drain them well on paper towels, and if necessary, pop them in a low oven to stay crisp while you finish frying the rest.
• Adjusting spice level: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the chili powder and use a milder green chili in the dip.

Serving Suggestions

• As a snack: Serve with mango chutney, tamarind sauce, or plain yogurt.
• With a meal: Pair alongside a warm curry and basmati rice for a full meal experience.
• Stuffed in wraps: Add them to a wrap with fresh veggies and yogurt sauce for a delicious on-the-go meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Bake in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it will make them soft.
• Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked bhajis for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Conclusion

Making onion bhajis at home is easier than you think, and the results are far superior to store-bought versions. With their crispy, golden texture and rich, aromatic flavors, they make the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish for an Indian-inspired meal. Paired with a refreshing coriander dip, these bhajis offer the ideal balance of spice and freshness. Even if you’ve never fried anything before, this recipe is a great way to start, with straightforward steps and simple ingredients. Once you try these homemade bhajis, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Try them out and let us know how they turned out for you!