by Bhajiya, also known as Bhajia or Pakora, is a beloved Gujarati snack featuring crunchy, deep-fried fritters made from a spiced gram flour batter and vegetables. This version highlights fresh spinach leaves, offering a vibrant green twist to the classic recipe. Perfect for monsoon evenings or as a tea-time treat, these bhajiyas are easy to make and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a savory bite, this detailed Bhajiya recipe will guide you to fry up some deliciousness at home. Let’s get crispy!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
(Includes preparing batter and spinach)
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
(Frying the bhajiyas in batches)
Total Time
- 35 minutes
(A quick and crunchy snack!)
Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)
This recipe makes approximately 20-25 bhajiyas (serves 4-5 people). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below (using spinach):
- Calories: 1100 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 75g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 65g
- Carbohydrates: 90g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 3g (from spinach)
- Sodium: 1800mg (varies based on salt content)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (completely cholesterol-free!)
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 50% of Daily Value (DV) (from spinach)
- Vitamin C: 20% of DV (from spinach and chilies)
- Iron: 25% of DV
- Magnesium: 20% of DV
Note: Values may vary based on portion size, oil absorption, and specific ingredient brands.
Ingredients
For the Bhajiya Batter:
- 1 cup besan (gram flour) – sifted for smoothness
- 2 tablespoons rice flour – optional, for extra crispiness
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – for color
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder – adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds) – for flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida) – enhances digestion
- 1 teaspoon salt – or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – optional, for puffiness
- Water – as needed to form a thick batter (about 1/2 to 2/3 cup)
For the Filling:
- 15-20 fresh spinach leaves – medium-sized, washed and patted dry
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste – optional, mixed into batter
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil – enough for deep frying (about 2-3 cups, depending on pan size)
For Serving:
- Green chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup
- Optional: Chaat masala for sprinkling
Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Deep frying pan or kadhai
- Slotted spoon
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup besan, 2 tablespoons rice flour (if using), 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder, 1 teaspoon ajwain, 1/4 teaspoon hing, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (if using).
- Add 1 teaspoon ginger paste (if using) and gradually pour in water (start with 1/2 cup), whisking to form a smooth, thick batter. It should coat the spinach leaves without dripping too much – adjust water as needed.
- Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the spinach.
Step 2: Prep the Spinach
- Wash 15-20 spinach leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Excess moisture can make the bhajiyas soggy, so ensure they’re dry.
- Trim any thick stems if necessary, keeping the leaves intact.
Step 3: Fry the Bhajiyas
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai over medium-high heat. Test readiness by dropping a small bit of batter – it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly.
- Dip each spinach leaf into the batter, coating it evenly on both sides, and gently slide it into the hot oil. Fry 3-4 bhajiyas at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping once with a slotted spoon, until golden and crisp. The spinach will soften inside the crispy coating.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining leaves and batter.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve hot with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup for dipping.
- Optional: Sprinkle with chaat masala for a tangy-spicy boost. Pair with a cup of chai for a perfect snack experience!
Benefits of Bhajiya
Spinach Bhajiya is a tasty snack with some nutritional perks! Here’s why it’s a delightful choice:
- Protein-Rich: Gram flour provides plant-based protein for energy.
- Vitamin Boost: Spinach is loaded with vitamins A and C for immunity and skin health.
- Fiber Content: Besan and spinach aid digestion with dietary fiber.
- Iron Source: Spinach contributes iron to combat fatigue.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free with besan as the base.
- Crispy Comfort: A satisfying treat for cozy cravings!
Note: As a fried snack, enjoy bhajiya in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
