Chili Baji (4)

Chili Bhaji, also known as Mirchi Bajji or Chilli Pakora, is a popular Indian snack made of green chilies dipped in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried. It’s a crispy, savory treat, often served with chutneys and chaat masala. A perfect vegan snack to be enjoyed anytime!

• Core Ingredients: Large, mildly spicy green chilies (like bajji mirchi, Bhavnagri chilies, or similar varieties) are used.
• Batter: The chilies are coated in a thick, spiced batter made primarily from gram flour, according to Swasthi’s Recipes and other ingredients such as rice flour, spices (like red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, asafoetida, ginger-garlic paste), salt, and baking soda.
• Preparation: The chilies are often deseeded to reduce heat, and sometimes stuffed with a mixture of spices like cumin, ajwain, and salt, or even a tangy spice mixture with cumin powder, salt, and lemon juice or tamarind pulp. They are then dipped in the batter and deep-fried until crispy.
• Flavor Profile: Chili Bhaji offers a combination of spicy chilies and a crispy, flavorful outer layer, making it dangerously addictive, according to Flavours Treat. The bajji chilies themselves are described as mildly spicy with a hint of sweetness, suitable for dishes needing warmth without overpowering heat.
• Serving: Mirchi bajji is commonly enjoyed on its own or with accompaniments like chutneys, tomato sauce, schezwan sauce, or a sprinkle of chaat masala. In some regions, it’s served with puffed rice upma. It is particularly popular as an evening snack, especially during monsoon or winter seasons, and is often paired with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Regional Variations: While the basic concept remains consistent across India, there are regional variations in preparation. For example, Andhra style Mirapakaya Bajji often involves a stuffing of chopped onions, coriander leaves, salt, lemon juice, and red chili powder after frying, according to Swasthi’s Recipes.