Spring Onion Bhajis with Fresh Mint and Coriander Chutney Recipe

Name: Spring Onion Bhajis
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 160g gram flour (chickpea flour); 25g plain flour; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 2 tsp black mustard seeds; ½ tsp sea salt plus extra for serving; 250ml chilled lager; 250g spring onions, finely sliced at an angle (about 12); 2 shallots, finely sliced; Vegetable oil for deep frying; Small bunch of mint leaves, picked; Small bunch of coriander, chopped; 1 green chili, chopped; Thumb-sized piece of ginger, chopped; Pinch of ground cumin; Juice of 1 lemon

By:

Camille Hayes

Published:

December 27, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Spring Onion Bhajis

If you’re looking for a tasty snack that’s easy to make, spring onion bhajis offer a wonderful option that fits into your busy schedule. These bhajis come together quickly with simple ingredients, perfect for home cooks who want something delicious without much fuss. Plus, the fresh spring onion adds a crisp texture and flavor that makes every bite enjoyable.

One key reason to try spring onion bhajis is their health benefits, as spring onions are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support your overall wellness. This recipe keeps things light by focusing on nutritious elements while still delivering a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re a busy parent or a student, these bhajis adapt easily to different dietary needs, making them a versatile choice for any meal.

From appetizers to light meals, spring onion bhajis stand out with their unique blend of spices and vegetables. They bring a burst of flavor that elevates simple ingredients into something special. Explore this recipe to add variety to your cooking routine and enjoy a dish that’s both fun and fulfilling.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Spring Onion Bhajis
2. Essential Ingredients for Spring Onion Bhajis
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Spring Onion Bhajis: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Spring Onion Bhajis
5. Mastering Spring Onion Bhajis: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Spring Onion Bhajis: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Onion Bhajis
8. Spring Onion Bhajis

Essential Ingredients for Spring Onion Bhajis

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making perfect spring onion bhajis. This section lists everything you need, including precise measurements for accuracy. We’ll start with the main ingredients for the bhajis and then cover the chutney to ensure you have a complete recipe.

Main Ingredients

160g gram flour (chickpea flour)
25g plain flour
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
2 tsp black mustard seeds
½ tsp sea salt plus extra for serving
250ml chilled lager
250g spring onions, finely sliced at an angle (about 12)
2 shallots, finely sliced
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Chutney Ingredients

Small bunch of mint leaves, picked
Small bunch of coriander, chopped
1 green chili, chopped
Thumb-sized piece of ginger, chopped
Pinch of ground cumin
Juice of 1 lemon

These ingredients create a flavorful base that’s simple yet effective for spring onion bhajis. For more on spring onions, check out this benefits of spring onions resource to understand their role in healthy eating.

How to Prepare the Perfect Spring Onion Bhajis: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting spring onion bhajis right involves a few straightforward steps that anyone can follow. Start by preparing your ingredients to make the process smooth and fun. This guide includes tips to help you achieve crispy results every time.

First, mix the gram flour, plain flour, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, black mustard seeds, and sea salt in a large bowl. Gradually whisk in the chilled lager until the batter forms, then stir in the finely sliced spring onions and shallots for a fresh twist. For the chutney, blend the mint leaves, chopped coriander, green chili, ginger, ground cumin, and lemon juice with 2-3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.

Next, heat vegetable oil in a pan to 180°C, which you can check by seeing if a bread cube browns in 30 seconds. Carefully spoon heaped tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until they turn crisp and golden brown. After frying, drain the bhajis on kitchen paper, season with extra sea salt, and keep them warm in a low oven while preparing the rest.

Serve the bhajis hot with the freshly made chutney for the best taste. The total preparation and cooking time is about 50 minutes, making it ideal for a quick meal. If you’re interested in similar vegetarian snacks, try this baked broccoli cheese balls recipe for a healthier option.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Spring Onion Bhajis

Making spring onion bhajis your own is easy with a few swaps. You can adjust for different needs while keeping the dish tasty and approachable. Let’s look at some options to fit various preferences.

For protein boosts, try substituting chickpea flour with lentil flour to change the texture slightly. Add grated paneer or tofu if you want more protein in each bite. When it comes to vegetables, use finely chopped leeks or scallions in place of spring onions for a similar crunch.

Spice things up by experimenting with garam masala or coriander powder instead of the originals. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can add a new layer of flavor. For heat, swap chili powder with smoked paprika or mild cayenne to control the spice level.

These changes make spring onion bhajis adaptable for vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie diets. Remember, simple tweaks can help you enjoy this recipe in many ways without losing its charm.

Mastering Spring Onion Bhajis: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your spring onion bhajis to the next level with these tips. Proper techniques ensure your bhajis come out perfect every time. Use a thermometer to keep oil between 175-180°C for the best fry and avoid soggy results.

Flavor variations can include adding grated ginger or garlic to the batter for an extra kick. Mixing in finely chopped spinach adds nutrients and color. For presentation, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a lemon wedge to make the dish look inviting.

If you’re planning ahead, prepare the batter and sliced onions up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them. Fry just before serving to keep that crispiness. This approach works well for events or meal prep, enhancing the overall experience with spring onion bhajis.

How to Store Spring Onion Bhajis: Best Practices

Storing spring onion bhajis properly helps maintain their texture and taste for later. Follow these steps to keep them fresh without much effort. Start by placing cooked bhajis in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, freeze them by laying bhajis in a single layer on a baking tray until solid, then move to freezer bags. They stay good for about a month. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 180°C for 8-10 minutes to bring back the crunch.

Meal prep is simple with these methods, allowing you to enjoy bhajis throughout the week. Always check for freshness before eating to ensure the best quality. For more on gram flour used in this recipe, visit the Gram flour page.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Onion Bhajis

How do you make crispy spring onion bhajis at home?

To make crispy spring onion bhajis, start by finely chopping spring onions and mixing them with chickpea flour, rice flour (for extra crispiness), turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add cold water gradually to form a thick batter. Heat oil in a deep pan and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil. Fry in small batches on medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with chutney. Using rice flour and keeping the batter thick are key steps for achieving a crispy texture.

Can spring onion bhajis be made gluten-free?

Yes, spring onion bhajis can easily be made gluten-free by using chickpea flour (besan) and rice flour instead of wheat flour. Both these flours are naturally gluten-free and create a tasty, crunchy coating. Make sure to use gluten-free spices and check that your cooking oil hasn’t been cross-contaminated to keep the recipe fully gluten-free.

What are some good dipping sauces to serve with spring onion bhajis?

Spring onion bhajis pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic choices include mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or a cooling yogurt raita. Mint chutney adds freshness, tamarind chutney brings a tangy sweetness, and yogurt raita offers a creamy balance to the spicy bhajis. These dips complement the flavors and make the snack even more enjoyable.

How can I make spring onion bhajis less oily?

To reduce oil absorption when making spring onion bhajis, ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers the oil temperature. Use a slotted spoon to remove bhajis and drain them on paper towels immediately after frying. You can also try shallow frying or air frying as healthier alternatives that use less oil while still producing a crispy result.

Can spring onion bhajis be prepared in advance and reheated?

Spring onion bhajis are best eaten fresh for maximum crispiness, but they can be made a few hours ahead. To reheat, place them on a baking tray in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain some crunchiness. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make bhajis soggy. Storing them uncovered at room temperature helps preserve texture before reheating.