mitzireddy

Bhajias, more commonly known as Chilli bites is a savoury Indian treat that can be served as a snack at any time and is popular in South Africa. It’s also a very quick mix to put together and is then deep fried and is a tasty snack served hot thats especially welcome in cold chilly weather. It’s a firm family favorite and from the countless recipes that I have tried over the years this is currently my favorite – this is also my contribution to meatless Monday.

BHAJIAS (CHILLI BITES)

Ingredients

½ cup Chickpea flour

1 1/2 cup Self raising flour

1 Medium-sized potato, coarsely grated

1 Medium-sized onion, grated

10 ml Coarsely ground coriander seeds

5 ml Coarsely ground cumin seeds

3 Green chillies (finely pounded)

1 ½ tsp Fine salt

½ tsp chilli powder

A handful fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)

A handful of finely chopped spinach leaves

25 ml Diced spring onions (optional)

½ can (410gr) cream style sweetcorn

Cold water

Oil for frying (you can use Olive oil too)

Method

Sift all the dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Then add the remaining ingredients to the mixing bowl as well.
Mix in enough water to make a batter similar to the consistency of thick pancake batter (sticky but not dry or runny).

Drop spoonfuls of the batter into hot, deep oil.

Turn over when the fritters are golden brown. Once the other side is golden brown, remove the chilli bites and drain on absorbent paper toweling. 

The chilli bites can be served with any variety of yoghurt dips and chutneys.