Fried onion fritters (peyaju) with a cup of tea make a perfect snack for the evening. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a chilly winter evening, crispy onion fritters are loved by everyone at home. While we often prepare peyaju more during Ramadan, it’s also a delightful addition to a plate of panta bhat (fermented rice) – a personal favorite of mine. Making perfectly crispy and crunchy peyaju can be a little tricky, but let’s dive into the recipe to get it just right!
Ingredients:
- Masoor dal (red lentil) paste: 1 cup
- Rice flour: 2-3 tablespoons
- Chopped onion: 1 cup
- Chopped green chilies: 4-5
- Ginger paste: 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
- Red chili powder: ½ teaspoon
- Coriander powder: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
- Chopped coriander leaves: as needed
- Corn flour: ½ tablespoon
Onion Fritters (Peyaju) Instructions:
- Soak the Lentils:
Soak the masoor dal for 5-6 hours beforehand. - Make the Paste:
Drain the water from the dal thoroughly and grind it into a paste using a mortar or blender. Ensure the paste isn’t too fine; a slightly coarse texture is ideal. - Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the lentil paste with all the other ingredients. Use your hands to mix well, as this helps to create a better texture for the fritters. - Heat the Oil:
Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Ensure the oil is hot, then reduce the heat slightly before frying. - Shape the Fritters:
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls or flat patties. Gently drop them into the hot oil. - Fry the Peyaju:
Fry the fritters without disturbing them until one side is golden and crispy. Avoid stirring with a spoon too early, as this might break the fritters. Flip and fry the other side until equally golden and crisp. - Serve:
Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve crispy peyaju hot with cucumber salad, tomato ketchup, or chutney.
Onion Fritters (Peyaju) Tips:
- Adding a little polao rice along with the lentils enhances both the flavor and aroma.
- For a pakora-style variation, mix in some grated potatoes with the batter.
- Adding mint leaves gives a refreshing twist to the flavor.
Enjoy these crispy delights as an evening snack or a side dish with your favorite meal!
