Spring Onion Bhajis with Fresh Mint and Coriander Chutney Recipe

Name: Spring Onion Bhajis
Prep time: 1 h 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 160g gram flour (chickpea flour); 25g plain flour; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 2 tsp black mustard seeds; ½ tsp sea salt, plus extra for seasoning; 250ml chilled lager; 250g spring onions (about 12), finely sliced at an angle; 2 shallots, finely sliced; Vegetable oil for deep frying; Small bunch of mint leaves, picked; Small bunch of coriander, chopped; 1 green chilli, chopped; Thumb-sized piece of ginger, chopped; Pinch of ground cumin; Juice of 1 lemon; 2-3 tablespoons of cold water (for the chutney)

By:

Brandi Oshea

Published:

January 2, 2026

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Why You’ll Love This Spring Onion Bhajis

Discover the charm of spring onion bhajis, a delightful snack that’s perfect for anyone seeking a quick and tasty treat. This spring onion bhajis recipe stands out for its ease of preparation, making it ideal for busy parents or students who need something fast yet flavorful. You’ll appreciate how the batter mixes in minutes and fries up crispy in no time, turning simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser.

Beyond convenience, spring onion bhajis offer impressive health benefits, especially with chickpea flour providing plant-based protein and fiber that supports digestion and overall wellness. They serve as a smarter choice compared to other fried snacks, allowing food enthusiasts and diet-conscious individuals to enjoy something indulgent without overdoing it. Plus, the fresh spring onions add a sharp, nutritious crunch that makes each bite satisfying.

What really makes these bhajis shine is their versatility, adapting easily to various lifestyles whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or watching calories. For those new to cooking like newlyweds or seniors, this recipe inspires confidence with straightforward steps that encourage experimentation. With their unique blend of spices and onions, spring onion bhajis bring a burst of flavor to your table, perfect for sharing with family or friends. If you’re curious about more healthy ingredient options, check out this crispy tofu bowl recipe for another plant-based idea.

The bhajis’ distinctive flavor comes from the mild sweetness of spring onions paired with aromatic spices, creating a contrast that’s hard to resist. This treat works well as an appetizer or side, fitting seamlessly into meals for working professionals or baking enthusiasts looking to add variety. Overall, it’s a recipe that brings joy to cooking, helping you create memorable moments around the table. For more on the base ingredient, chickpea flour benefits can show how it boosts nutrition in everyday dishes.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Spring Onion Bhajis
2. Essential Ingredients for Spring Onion Bhajis
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Spring Onion Bhajis: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Spring Onion Bhajis
5. Mastering Spring Onion Bhajis: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Spring Onion Bhajis: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Onion Bhajis
8. Spring Onion Bhajis

Essential Ingredients for Spring Onion Bhajis

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious spring onion bhajis that are crispy and full of flavor. Below is a complete list of everything you need for both the bhajis and the accompanying chutney. This ensures your recipe turns out perfectly every time, with precise measurements for easy preparation.

160g gram flour (chickpea flour)
25g plain flour
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
2 tsp black mustard seeds
½ tsp sea salt, plus extra for seasoning
250ml chilled lager
250g spring onions (about 12), finely sliced at an angle
2 shallots, finely sliced
Vegetable oil for deep frying
Small bunch of mint leaves, picked
Small bunch of coriander, chopped
1 green chilli, chopped
Thumb-sized piece of ginger, chopped
Pinch of ground cumin
Juice of 1 lemon
2-3 tablespoons of cold water (for the chutney)

These ingredients make the recipe naturally vegan and gluten-free when prepared as described, offering options for special dietary needs. Each item plays a role in achieving the perfect texture and taste, so measure carefully for the best results.

How to Prepare the Perfect Spring Onion Bhajis: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating spring onion bhajis at home is straightforward and rewarding, with steps that anyone can follow. Start by preparing your ingredients to ensure everything goes smoothly from the beginning. This guide incorporates the exact instructions for a foolproof outcome, including tips for the chutney.

First, in a large bowl, combine 160g gram flour, 25g plain flour, 1 tsp ground turmeric, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 2 tsp black mustard seeds, and ½ tsp sea salt. Gradually whisk in 250ml chilled lager to form a smooth batter, making sure there are no lumps for even frying.

Next, stir in the 250g finely sliced spring onions and 2 shallots into the batter, mixing gently to distribute evenly. For the chutney, blend the small bunch of mint leaves, small bunch of chopped coriander, 1 chopped green chilli, thumb-sized piece of chopped ginger, pinch of ground cumin, juice of 1 lemon, and 2-3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.

Then, heat vegetable oil to 180°C in a deep pan for frying. Test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter; it should sizzle immediately. Carefully drop heaped tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes until golden and crisp.

After frying, drain the bhajis on paper towels, season with extra sea salt, and keep them warm in a low oven. Serve the bhajis hot with the prepared chutney for a fresh contrast. For more ideas on similar quick meals, try this falafel pita sandwich recipe which pairs well with dips.

Additional Preparation Tips

Remember, the total preparation time is about 50 minutes, so plan accordingly. This step-by-step approach helps beginners and experts alike achieve crispy results every time.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Spring Onion Bhajis

Customizing spring onion bhajis is simple and allows you to adapt the recipe to your preferences or restrictions. Start with protein alternatives if you’re looking to mix things up, such as substituting chickpea flour with other options for a twist. These changes keep the bhajis delicious while fitting various diets.

For protein and main component alternatives, consider using moong dal flour or lentil flour in place of chickpea flour for different textures and nutrients. You can add tofu or tempeh cubes to boost protein, especially for vegan meals, without altering the core flavor.

When it comes to vegetable, sauce, and seasoning modifications, swap spring onions with leeks or scallions if they’re in season. Incorporate grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and health benefits, and try tamarind chutney or mint yogurt as sides for variety. Adjust spices by changing the amount of chili or adding smoked paprika for a new taste profile.

Mastering Spring Onion Bhajis: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your spring onion bhajis to the next level involves some pro techniques and creative twists. Keep the oil temperature steady at 175-180°C to ensure your bhajis come out extra crispy every time. Avoid overmixing the batter to preserve its light and airy quality, which is key for the perfect fry.

Experiment with flavor variations by adding fresh coriander, carom seeds, or curry leaves to the mix for a unique spin. Presentation matters too, so garnish with chopped coriander and serve on vibrant plates to make the dish pop. If you’re prepping ahead, make the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, then fry fresh for the best crunch.

How to Store Spring Onion Bhajis: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your spring onion bhajis tasting fresh and crispy for longer. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to lock in flavor and texture. For longer-term options, freeze the cooled bhajis on a tray first, then transfer to freezer bags where they’ll last about a month.

When reheating, use a preheated oven at 180°C for 8-10 minutes to bring back that satisfying crunch without making them dry. Consider meal prep by batch frying and freezing uncooked batter or partially fried bhajis for quick, easy meals later in the week.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Onion Bhajis

How do you make crispy Spring Onion Bhajis at home?

To make crispy Spring Onion Bhajis, slice spring onions thinly and mix them with chickpea flour, rice flour for extra crunch, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Add water gradually to make a thick batter that coats the onions well. Heat oil in a deep pan and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels before serving to remove excess oil.

What spices work best in Spring Onion Bhajis?

Common spices for Spring Onion Bhajis include cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Fresh green chilies can be added for heat, while ginger and garlic enhance flavor. The spices should be balanced to bring out the natural sweetness of the onions without overpowering them.

Can Spring Onion Bhajis be made gluten-free?

Yes, Spring Onion Bhajis are naturally gluten-free when made with chickpea flour (besan) alone. Avoid adding wheat flour and use rice flour or cornflour instead to improve crispiness. Always check labels to ensure the flours are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

How do I store and reheat leftover Spring Onion Bhajis?

Store leftover bhajis in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking tray and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

What are some good dips to serve with Spring Onion Bhajis?

Spring Onion Bhajis pair well with tangy tamarind chutney, cooling mint yogurt sauce, or fresh coriander chutney. These dips complement the spices in the bhajis and add freshness. You can also serve them with simple plain yogurt mixed with a little salt and lemon juice for a mild contrast.