If you're craving a delightful snack that captures the essence of Indian cuisine, look no further than these mouthwatering Baked Pakora Onion Bhajis! These crispy, golden treats are not only packed with flavor but are also healthier than their deep-fried counterparts. Perfect for entertaining or as a cozy evening snack, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple baking process, you'll be savoring these delicious bites in no time. Ready to elevate your snacking game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup chickpea flour
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Peel and slice the onions thinly using a sharp knife. Aim for uniform, translucent slices approximately 1/8 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, red chili powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Gradually add water to the flour mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, thick batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter - not too runny or too thick.
- Add the sliced onions to the batter and gently fold until each onion slice is completely coated with the spiced chickpea flour mixture.
- Lightly grease the parchment paper with oil to prevent sticking. Use a spoon or your hands to drop small clusters of the onion-batter mixture onto the baking sheet, ensuring space between each bhaji.
- Drizzle or brush a small amount of oil over the top of each bhaji to help achieve a crispy exterior during baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the bhajis halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Check for a golden-brown color and crispy edges. The bhajis should be firm to the touch but not burnt.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes. This allows the bhajis to set and become slightly crispier.
- Serve hot with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce. Best enjoyed immediately while still warm and crisp.
Tips
- Slice Evenly: For the best texture, ensure your onion slices are uniform and thin—about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Batter Consistency: Pay close attention to the batter consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the onions without dripping off. If it’s too thick, add a little water; if it’s too runny, add more chickpea flour.
- Space Them Out: When placing the bhajis on the baking sheet, make sure to leave enough space between each cluster. This allows hot air to circulate and ensures they bake evenly without steaming.
- Oil for Crispiness: Don’t skimp on the oil! A light drizzle or brush on top of the bhajis before baking will help them achieve that coveted crispy texture.
- Turn for Even Browning: Halfway through the baking time, turn the bhajis to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. This simple step makes a huge difference in achieving that golden, crunchy finish.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your bhajis hot and fresh out of the oven. Pair them with mint chutney or tamarind sauce for a delightful flavor explosion!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
