Crispy Capsicum Bajji (Bell Pepper Fritters) – Easy Indian Snack

Capsicum Bajji Recipe (Bell Pepper Bajji)

A Popular Indian Snack with a Crispy Twist

Looking for a quick, mouthwatering snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and perfect for tea time? Try making Capsicum Bajji, also known as Kuda Milagai Bajji or Bell Pepper Bajji. This vegetarian delight is a favorite Indian street food, where crunchy bell pepper strips are dipped in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served hot, it’s a delicious snack for any occasion—whether it’s a rainy day, a quick appetizer for guests, or a simple treat with a cup of tea.

This recipe will guide you step-by-step on how to prepare this easy-to-make snack with a few ingredients and minimal time.

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Pepper
   Start by carefully removing the top stem of the green bell pepper. Cut it into two equal halves vertically and deseed the pepper to remove any bitterness. Once deseeded, slice the bell pepper into long, thick strips that are perfect for dipping in the batter.

2. Prepare the Bajji Batter
   In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), turmeric powder, red chilli powder, asafoetida (hing), and salt. Mix the ingredients thoroughly. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients and stir well until you have a thick batter that can coat the back of a spoon. The batter should have a smooth consistency that clings well to the bell pepper slices.

3. Heat Oil for Frying
   Heat oil in a kadai or deep frying pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the bajjis to a crispy golden brown but not smoking.

4. Coat the Bell Pepper Strips
   Dip each of the prepared bell pepper strips into the bajji batter, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated with the thick batter.

5. Fry the Bajjis
   Carefully slide the batter-coated bell pepper strips into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. This should take around 3-4 minutes per batch. Once done, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with absorbent paper to drain the excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the hot Capsicum Bajji immediately. It pairs wonderfully with coconut chutney or any chutney of your choice. For an authentic touch, enjoy it alongside a steaming cup of South Indian filter coffee, especially on a rainy day. You can also serve these crispy delights as a quick snack for unexpected guests or at tea time.

Tips:

• You can add a pinch of carom seeds (ajwain) to the batter for an added flavor.
• For an extra crispy texture, you can sprinkle a little rice flour into the bajji batter.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red chilli powder used in the batter.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Variations:

• Add Spices: You can experiment with additional spices such as cumin powder or garam masala in the batter for a more complex flavor.
• Stuffed Bajji: For a more filling version, stuff the bell pepper slices with a mixture of cheese, mashed potatoes, or spiced paneer before dipping them in the batter.
• Air Fryer Option: If you prefer a healthier version, try making this recipe in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer, brush the bajjis with a little oil, and air fry them until they are golden and crispy.

Perfect Pairings:

• Coconut Chutney: A tangy coconut chutney adds a delightful contrast to the spiced bajjis.
• Gulkand Chai: For a sweet and fragrant touch, serve the Capsicum Bajji with Gulkand (rose petal jam) tea, a traditional favorite that pairs beautifully with the spiced fritters.
• South Indian Filter Coffee: This classic pairing enhances the experience, making it a perfect rainy-day snack.

Whether you’re making this as a quick snack for yourself, an appetizer for guests, or an indulgent treat during tea time, Capsicum Bajji is sure to satisfy your cravings. This crispy and flavorful snack brings together the perfect balance of spices, texture, and taste—truly a delightful addition to your snack repertoire!