Capsicum Bajji Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Snack
Description:
Capsicum Bajji, a delectable Indian snack, is perfect for an evening treat or can be served alongside your meal. This dish features fresh, green capsicum (bell pepper) sliced into strips, dipped in a spiced gram flour batter, and deep-fried to golden perfection. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavors. Ideal to serve with a hot cup of masala chai and a side of coriander mint chutney, this snack is sure to delight your taste buds.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Capsicum (Bell Pepper) | 1, medium-sized |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As needed, to make a thick batter |
| Oil | For deep-frying |
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-180 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Capsicum:
Start by cutting the capsicum (green bell pepper) lengthwise. Remove the seeds carefully, then slice it into long, thin strips. Set them aside for later. -
Make the Batter:
In a bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), turmeric powder, red chili powder, asafoetida, and salt. Mix all the dry ingredients together. Gradually add water little by little, stirring continuously, until the batter reaches a thick consistency—similar to pancake batter. Let the batter rest for a few minutes. -
Heat the Oil:
Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying but not smoking. You can test the heat by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready. -
Coat the Capsicum Strips:
Dip each capsicum strip into the prepared gram flour batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Be sure to shake off any excess batter before frying. -
Fry the Bajjis:
Gently drop the battered capsicum strips into the hot oil, one at a time. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning the batter. -
Drain Excess Oil:
Once the capsicum bajjis are cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with absorbent paper to soak up any excess oil. -
Serve:
Serve the crispy Capsicum Bajji hot with a refreshing side of coriander mint chutney and a cup of masala chai for the perfect evening snack. You can also serve them alongside rice or flatbreads for a light meal.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of garam masala or chat masala to the batter for an extra kick of flavor.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Add a little shredded cheese to the batter for a cheesy version of this snack.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, you can cook the capsicum bajji in an air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Capsicum Bajji is a snack that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of spices in the batter complements the sweetness of the capsicum, creating a delightful contrast in each bite. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it as a side dish or a snack, this dish will soon become a favorite at your table. Perfect for rainy evenings, casual gatherings, or even potlucks, Capsicum Bajji is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
So, the next time you’re craving something crispy and spicy, don’t hesitate to make this delicious Indian snack. You can easily whip it up in just 20 minutes, and it’s guaranteed to impress everyone around the table!
