Crispy Bhajia with Masala Chai
Indulge in the ultimate comfort of a classic Masala Chai and crispy Bhajias. Masala Chai is a traditional Indian spiced tea made with black tea, milk, aromatic spices, and sweetened to perfection. Paired with Bhajias, a delicious Indian fritter made with gram flour and various veggies, this combo makes for a delightful snack or light meal that will warm your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon black tea leaves or tea powder
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 1 small piece of cinnamon
- 3 cloves
- 1/2 inch piece of ginger, grated
- Sugar or sweetener (optional)
- 1/2 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small potato, thinly sliced
- 1/2 green chilies, finely chopped
- A handful of spinach leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
- Water for making batter
- Oil for deep frying
Masala Chai
Crispy Bhajia
Instructions
- Start by preparing the Masala Chai: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and add cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and grated ginger. Simmer for a minute.
- Add black tea leaves or tea powder, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add milk and bring the mixture to a boil again. Add sugar or sweetener if desired and strain the chai into a cup.
- Now, for the Bhajias: In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, cumin seeds, red chili powder, asafoetida, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add water and whisk until you get a smooth and thick batter.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Dip the sliced onions, potatoes, green chilies, and spinach (if using) in the batter and deep fry until golden and crispy.
- Drain the Bhajias on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Serve the piping hot Masala Chai with crispy Bhajias for a delectable Indian tea-time treat.
Note
- For Masala Chai, adjust the level of spices and sweetness according to your taste preference. You can use ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves for an authentic flavor.
- Bhajias can be customized with your favorite vegetables like potatoes, onions, spinach, or cauliflower. Ensure the batter has a smooth consistency to achieve crispy fritters.
- Serve the Bhajias hot with chutney or ketchup for dipping.