Crispy Onion Bhaji with Mint Cilantro Raita

Craving something crispy, spicy, and absolutely irresistible? These Onion Bhaji (also known as onion pakoras) are the ultimate Indian street food snack. Lightly spiced, golden-fried onion fritters made with gram flour and fresh herbs—paired with a cool, creamy mint cilantro raita for the perfect bite.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, making appetizers for a gathering, or just want a flavorful tea-time snack, this recipe brings authentic flavor straight to your kitchen.

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Crispy Onion Bhaji with Mint Cilantro Raita

Recipe by Patrick Kong

Course: AppetizersCuisine: IndianDifficulty: Easy

Print

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Ingredients

• Onion Bhaji

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 135 g gram flour (besan)

• 1 Tbsp corn starch

• 120 g water

• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

• 2 green chilies, finely chopped

• Neutral oil, for deep frying

• Mint Cilantro Raita

• 1 cup yogurt

• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 Tbsp lime juice

• 1/2 tsp ground coriander

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp salt

Directions

• Onion Bhaji
• In a large bowl, combine sliced onions, spices, cilantro, green chilies, gram flour, corn starch, and salt. Slowly add water and mix until the onions are coated in a thick, sticky batter.
• Heat neutral oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C). The oil should be hot but not smoking.
• Scoop spoonfuls of the onion mixture into the oil, flattening slightly. Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
• Raita
• In a bowl, mix yogurt, mint, cilantro, lime juice, ground coriander, cumin, and salt until smooth.
• Chill until ready to serve. This makes a perfect dipping sauce for your bhajis!

🌶️ Tips & Variations

• Make it milder: Reduce or omit green chilies for a less spicy version.
• Add crunch: Mix in shredded cabbage or carrots for texture.
• Dairy-free raita? Use coconut yogurt or almond yogurt for a plant-based version.

✅ Final Thoughts

These Onion Bhaji with Mint Cilantro Raita are everything you want in a savory snack—crispy, spicy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe brings classic flavors to your table with minimal fuss.