Onion Bhajis Recipe
This baked Onion Bhajis recipe combines thinly sliced onions with chickpea flour, spices, and a hint of green chili. Perfectly spiced, crispy, and gluten-free for a healthier twist on the classic.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 3 large onions approximately 600g/1lb 5oz, peeled and finely sliced
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 inch piece of ginger peeled and julienned
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 3/4 teaspoon coriander powder
- 3 tablespoons fresh coriander cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 green bird’s eye chilies finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder
- 100 g 3/4 cup chickpea flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rapeseed canola oil
Instructions
Prepare the Onions:
- Place the finely sliced onions in a large mixing bowl. Add the salt and mix thoroughly with your hands to ensure even distribution. Let the onions rest for at least 30 minutes and up to 3 hours. This step allows the salt to draw out moisture, which will help bind the mixture.
Combine the Spices:
- After the onions have rested, squeeze them gently with your hands to release any remaining water into the bowl. Add the cumin seeds, julienned ginger, turmeric powder, coriander powder, fresh coriander, green chilies, and Kashmiri chili powder to the onions. Stir thoroughly to blend the spices with the onions.
Incorporate the Chickpea Flour:
- Sift the chickpea flour over the onion mixture and mix well until the flour is fully integrated. The moisture from the salted onions should be sufficient to form a batter that binds the onions together. If the mixture appears too dry, add a small amount of water as needed; if too wet, sift in a little additional chickpea flour.
Add the Oil:
- Drizzle the rapeseed oil over the mixture and mix thoroughly by hand to ensure an even coating.
Shape and Bake the Bhajis:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Shape the onion mixture into 20 equal-sized portions and place them on the tray. Bake the bhajis for approximately 40 minutes or until they are golden brown, checking them periodically as oven temperatures may vary.
Serve:
- Once baked, remove the onion bhajis from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Pair with chutney or raita for an authentic touch.
Notes
This recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the use of chickpea flour in place of traditional wheat flour. For those sensitive to gluten, ensure all spices and ingredients used are certified gluten-free.