Go Back
–+ servings
Indian Onion Bhaji

Crispy Indian Onion Bhaji: Healthy, Vegan, Low-Oil Snack

Enjoy these Healthy Indian Onion Bhaji, a crispy vegan snack packed with flavor and low in oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bhajis
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 2 medium Onions Provides the base flavor and texture for the bhajis; you can replace with thinly shredded carrot or potato for variation.
  • 1 cup Chickpea Flour The key ingredient that gives structure and flavor; regular all-purpose flour can be used, but may require additional spices.
  • 1 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast Optional; adds a cheesy flavor and extra nutrients for a boost.
  • ¾ tsp Ground Cumin Adds warmth and earthiness to the batter for a depth of flavor.
  • ¾ tsp Salt Enhances flavor; don't skip this step!
  • ½ tsp Ground Turmeric Provides an earthy taste and beautiful color to the bhajis.
  • ½ cup Water Helps achieve the right batter consistency; adjust as necessary for thickness.
  • 1 tsp Lime Juice Adds brightness and balances flavors; lemon juice can be used interchangeably.
  • 1 Green Hot Chili Pepper Adds spice and depth; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
  • 1 Tbsp Chopped Parsley or Cilantro For freshness and garnish, elevating the dish's appeal.
For Frying
  • 3 Tbsp Oil for frying Coconut preferred for shallow frying to achieve crispiness; remember, less is more with this healthy version of Indian Onion Bhaji!

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Healthy Indian Onion Bhaji
  1. Peel the medium onions and slice them into thin strips, ensuring each piece is uniform for even cooking. Place the sliced onions in a bowl and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of chickpea flour, 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast, ¾ teaspoon of ground cumin, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric. Gradually add ½ cup of water and 1 teaspoon of lime juice, stirring until the batter reaches a medium-thick consistency.
  3. Add the sliced onions to the prepared batter, gently folding them in to ensure they are well-coated.
  4. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the pan. Allow the oil to heat up for about 2 minutes.
  5. Drop spoonfuls of the onion-batter mixture into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook 4 fritters at a time for about 2-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  6. Once the bhajis are fried to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all the batter is used.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bhajiCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 3gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Store leftover onion bhaji in an airtight container for up to 3 days; for longer storage, freeze bhajis on a baking sheet for up to 2 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!