Pyaaz Ki Kachori – A Crispy Delight from North India

Pyaaz Ki Kachori, a delightful snack, is a popular dish from the streets of North India. Its crispy exterior, paired with a spicy and tangy onion filling, makes it an irresistible treat. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to make this savory delight at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• 2 tablespoons semolina (sooji)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Water (as needed to knead the dough)
• Ghee or oil for frying

For the Filling:

• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (saunf)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped
• 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp (optional for tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, semolina, ajwain, and salt.
2. Add ghee: Rub ghee into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Knead the dough: Gradually add water to the mixture, kneading until you get a smooth, soft dough. Cover it with a damp cloth and set it aside for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Heat oil: In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Temper the spices: Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and asafoetida. Let them splutter.
3. Cook onions: Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add spices: Stir in turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
5. Add ginger and chilies: Add chopped ginger and green chilies, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Balance flavors: Add the tamarind pulp and sugar if desired, mixing them into the filling. Allow the mixture to cook until the onions are well-cooked and soft, and all the flavors have melded together.
7. Finish with cilantro: Stir in the chopped cilantro, and set the filling aside to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Kachoris

1. Divide the dough: Once the dough has rested, divide it into small portions (about 12-15 portions).
2. Roll out the dough: Roll each portion into a small ball, then flatten it out into a small disc using your fingers or a rolling pin.
3. Add the filling: Place a spoonful of the cooled onion filling in the center of each disc.
4. Seal the kachori: Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to completely seal the filling inside. Shape the kachori into a smooth ball or a disc shape.
5. Flatten gently: Lightly press the filled dough ball into a thick disc using your fingers. Be gentle to prevent the filling from spilling out.

Step 4: Fry the Kachoris

1. Heat oil: Heat enough ghee or oil in a deep pan to fry the kachoris on medium heat.
2. Fry the kachoris: Once the oil is hot, gently slide the prepared kachoris into the oil. Fry them in batches, ensuring they don’t stick to each other.
3. Golden and crispy: Fry the kachoris until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your crispy, golden Pyaaz Ki Kachoris hot with tamarind chutney, green chutney, or yogurt. These kachoris make for a perfect snack or appetizer at any gathering or special occasion.

Tips for Perfect Kachoris:

1. Dough consistency: The dough should be firm enough to hold the filling but still soft. Don’t overwork the dough, as it could make the kachoris tough.
2. Filling moisture: Ensure the onion filling is not too watery, as excess moisture can cause the kachoris to break while frying.
3. Oil temperature: Make sure the oil is medium-hot, not too hot, as it could cause the kachoris to burn on the outside without cooking through.

Conclusion

Pyaaz Ki Kachori is an authentic, delicious snack that perfectly blends crispy textures with flavorful spices. Whether it’s a rainy evening or a festive occasion, this dish will surely add a touch of warmth and delight to your meal!