Crispy Bhajas with Spicy Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 small eggplant, thinly sliced 1 small eggplant, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (120g) chickpea flour 1 cup (120g) chickpea flour
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the mixture, whisking well, until a smooth batter is formed. The batter should have a thick consistency.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced onions, potatoes, and eggplant to the batter. Mix well, ensuring that all the vegetables are coated evenly.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat.
5. 5.
   Carefully drop spoonfuls of the vegetable mixture into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. 6.
   Fry the Bhajas until they turn golden brown and crispy, flipping them occasionally for even cooking.
7. 7.
   Once cooked, remove the Bhajas from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. 8.
   Repeat the frying process with the remaining vegetable mixture.
9. 9.
   Serve the Crispy Bhajas hot with the spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chickpea flour — Ensure that the chickpea flour is fresh and free from lumps for a smooth batter consistency.
• Potatoes — Slice the potatoes thinly to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
• Eggplant — Choose a firm and fresh eggplant for the best results. Remove any excess moisture from the sliced eggplant before adding it to the batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, refrigerate the sliced vegetables in the batter for 15-20 minutes before frying.
• Adjust the spice levels in the dipping sauce according to your preference by adding more or less red chili powder.
• Serve the Bhajas immediately after frying to maintain their crispiness.
• Experiment with different vegetables such as zucchini or cauliflower for a unique twist on the recipe.
• To reduce the oil absorption, place the fried Bhajas on a wire rack instead of a paper towel.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Bhajas as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or with the spicy dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Crispy Bhajas on a platter, showcasing their vibrant colors and crispy texture. Serve the spicy dipping sauce in a small bowl alongside the Bhajas. Add a sprinkle of red chili powder or paprika on top for an extra pop of color.