Mirchi Bajji Recipe – Mirapakaya Bajji | Green Chili Fritters
Mirchi Bajji, a delightful street food snack from the heart of India, is a beloved treat in many households, especially in the vibrant city of Guntur. Known for its bold and spicy flavors, Mirchi Bajji is made with large green chilies that are carefully stuffed with a flavorful mix of spices, coated in a crispy gram flour batter, and deep-fried to perfection. This North Indian snack is a popular choice at tea time or as an appetizer, served alongside tangy lemon wedges, crunchy onions, and a dash of red chili powder. Let’s dive into the details of preparing this savory indulgence, and bring the flavors of Guntur to your kitchen!
Recipe Overview:
- Cuisine: North Indian
- Course: Snack
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4-5 people
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Chillies | 10 large (big) |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For deep frying |
| For Stuffing | |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 3 tablespoons (dry roasted) |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Serving | |
| Onions | Thinly sliced |
| Red Chilli Powder | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1-2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180-200 kcal (approx.) |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | Varies based on salt usage |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
To begin making your Mirchi Bajji, first, prepare the flavorful stuffing. In a grinder or food processor, coarsely grind the ajwain (carom seeds) and sesame seeds (til) along with some salt. Set the stuffing aside for later use. This mixture will add a delightful aroma and flavor to the green chilies once stuffed.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Chilies
Next, take the green chilies, preferably the large ones, and slit them lengthwise. Be careful not to cut them into halves; you want to maintain the whole chili intact for stuffing. Using the tip of a knife, gently remove the seeds and the thick white veins inside the chilies. These parts contain the most heat, so it’s best to remove them for a balanced flavor.
Step 3: Stuff the Chilies
Once the chilies are cleaned, stuff them with the coarsely ground ajwain and sesame seed stuffing. You can do this using your fingers to gently pack the stuffing inside each chili. Set the stuffed chilies aside for the next step.
Step 4: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), baking soda, and salt. Gradually add water to make a thick batter that has a smooth consistency. Whisk the batter gently to avoid lumps. The batter should be thick enough to coat the stuffed chilies well. Set the batter aside.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a wok or kadai, heat enough oil for deep frying. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small ball of batter into the hot oil. If it sizzles and rises to the top, then the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
Step 6: Fry the Mirchi Bajji
Dip each of the stuffed green chilies into the prepared batter, ensuring that the batter coats the chilies evenly. Gently drop the battered chilies into the hot oil, starting from the corner of the kadai to avoid splashing. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; fry 2-3 chilies at a time, depending on the size of your pan.
Fry the Mirchi Bajji on medium heat, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy. This process should take about 4-5 minutes for each batch. Once fried, remove the chilies from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once all the chilies are fried, it’s time to serve! Arrange the Mirchi Bajji on a platter and garnish with thinly sliced onions, a sprinkle of red chili powder, and a drizzle of lemon juice. The addition of fresh coriander leaves adds a burst of color and freshness. Serve the hot Mirchi Bajji with tea, and enjoy the crispy, spicy goodness with every bite!
Tips and Variations:
- Chili Varieties: While green chilies are the traditional choice, you can experiment with milder or spicier varieties based on your heat tolerance. If you prefer a milder version, use larger, less spicy chilies.
- Batter Consistency: The batter must be thick enough to coat the chilies properly. If the batter is too thin, it won’t stick well. Adjust the water accordingly.
- Stuffing: You can customize the stuffing by adding a pinch of cumin powder, coriander powder, or amchur (dried mango powder) for extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: These Mirchi Bajji are perfect with a cup of Adrak Chai (Indian Ginger Tea) or any beverage of your choice. They also pair wonderfully with a tangy tamarind chutney or mint chutney for an extra zing.
Conclusion:
Mirchi Bajji (or Mirapakaya Bajji) is a timeless snack that captures the essence of Indian street food. Crispy on the outside, spicy and aromatic on the inside, these deep-fried green chilies are perfect for any occasion—whether as an appetizer, tea-time snack, or party treat. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy the authentic flavors of Guntur at home. The stuffing of ajwain and sesame seeds adds a unique flavor profile that sets this snack apart from other chili fritters.
So go ahead, spice up your snack game with this easy-to-make yet delicious Mirchi Bajji recipe. Don’t forget to share your creation with family and friends, and enjoy the crispy, fiery bite of India’s favorite street food!
