Baked Onion Bhajis Recipe

Onions: Thinly sliced to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

Chickpea flour: Also known as gram flour, it forms the base of the batter, giving the bhajis their characteristic texture.

Cumin seeds: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the bhajis.

Crushed coriander seeds: Provides a citrusy, slightly nutty taste that complements the other spices.

Turmeric powder: Gives the bhajis a vibrant yellow color and a subtle earthy flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bhajis.

Chili powder: Adds a bit of heat to the bhajis, balancing the other spices.

Water: Used to form the batter, added gradually to achieve the right consistency.

Oil: Used for greasing the baking tray to prevent sticking and to help the bhajis crisp up.

To achieve the perfect texture for your baked onion bhajis, ensure that the onions are sliced uniformly thin. This allows them to cook evenly and become crispy. When mixing the chickpea flour with the spices, make sure to coat the onions thoroughly before adding water. Gradually incorporate the water to avoid a runny batter; it should be thick enough to cling to the onions. For an extra crispy finish, you can lightly brush the tops of the bhajis with a bit more oil before baking.

• thinly sliced onions - Substitute with thinly sliced shallots: Shallots have a similar texture and a slightly sweeter flavor, which can add a unique twist to the bhajis.

• chickpea flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used in a pinch, though it won't have the same nutty flavor and gluten-free properties as chickpea flour.

• cumin seeds - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin can provide a similar flavor profile, though the texture will be different.

• crushed coriander seeds - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander will offer the same citrusy flavor but in a finer form.

• turmeric powder - Substitute with saffron: Saffron can provide a similar color and a unique flavor, though it is more expensive and should be used sparingly.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, though it will also add moisture to the mixture.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can provide a milder heat and a similar color, making it a good alternative for those who prefer less spice.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add more depth of flavor compared to plain water.

• oil - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can provide a richer flavor and is traditionally used in Indian cooking, making it a great alternative for greasing.

• Allow the baked onion bhajis to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
• Place the cooled bhajis in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bhajis. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the bhajis to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen bhajis on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Serve immediately with your favorite chutney or dip.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover baked onion bhajis on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush them with a bit of oil to help them crisp up. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the bhajis in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will help retain their crispiness.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the bhajis in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even reheating.

• Microwave Method: Place the bhajis on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness but is quick and convenient.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bhajis on the toaster oven tray and heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method is great for small batches and helps maintain their texture.

• Oven: Used to bake the onion bhajis at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Baking tray: Holds the bhajis while they bake in the oven.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the bhajis from sticking to the baking tray and makes cleanup easier.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the chickpea flour, spices, and onions.

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the chickpea flour and water.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the spices and salt.

• Spoon: Helps to mix the ingredients and flatten the bhajis on the baking tray.

• Knife: Used to thinly slice the onions.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to safely slice the onions.

• Oil brush: Used to lightly grease the parchment paper on the baking tray.

Pre-slice onions: Slice the onions in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge to save time on prep.

Measure spices ahead: Measure out all the spices and keep them in a small bowl, ready to mix.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking tray with parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup easier.

Batch bake: Double the recipe and bake in batches to have extra bhajis for later.

Quick mix: Use a large mixing bowl to combine ingredients quickly and evenly.

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven while you prepare the batter to save time.