Peyaji is a beloved Bengali snack made with sliced onions, spices, and a crispy besan batter. This snack is perfect for tea time or as an evening treat. The combination of soft, flavorful onion filling and crunchy exterior makes it irresistible.
Peyaji is a staple in the streets of Kolkata, where it is enjoyed with a cup of tea and often served with puffed rice (muri). The key to a perfect Peyaji lies in the balance of spices in the onion mixture and the crispiness of the besan coating.
Peyaji (Bengali Onion Fritters)
Peyaji is a popular Bengali snack made with sliced onions, spices, and a crispy besan (gram flour) coating. It's perfect for tea time or as an evening treat. Let's make this delicious snack together!
Ingredients
For the Peyaji:
- 200 g onions sliced
- 10 g green chillies chopped
- 5 g salt
- 10 g sugar
- 30 g besan gram flour
- 30 g maida plain flour
- 10 g rice flour
- ½ tsp turmeric
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Mixture
- Peel, wash, and slice the onions.
- In a mixing bowl, add the sliced onions, chopped green chillies, salt, and sugar. Mix well and let it sit for five minutes to allow the moisture to come out from the onions.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- Add besan (gram flour), maida (plain flour), and rice flour to the onion mixture.
- Mix to form a tight batter. You won’t need any additional water. If the mixture appears too dry, let it sit for a few more minutes.
Step 3: Fry the Peyaji
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Take about 20 g of the batter and form it into a thin flat patty with your fingers.
- Gently drop the patty into the hot oil.
- Fry on low heat, turning them every 30 seconds for even cooking, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the Peyaji hot with green chutney or tomato ketchup.
Tips and Information
- Onion Mixture: Letting the onions sit with salt and sugar helps release moisture, which is essential for the batter.
- Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to coat the onions well.
- Frying: Fry on low to medium heat to ensure the Peyaji cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
Making Peyaji at home is simple and allows you to enjoy this classic street food with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re familiar with Bengali cuisine or trying it for the first time, Peyaji is sure to become a favorite tea-time snack for your family!