Indian CuisineIndian FoodDurban Indian

Bhajia (Chilli Bites)

Bhajia (Chili Bites) is a fiery Indian snack or entree dish like a fritter, with a few variations.

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By DenisiyaPublished on September 30, 2016
Bhajia (Chilli Bites)
⏱️
Prep Time15 mins
🍳
Cook Time8 mins
⌛
Total Time23 mins
🍽️
ServingsMakes 20-25
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This Indian Recipe Makes ± 30 Pieces

Bhajia (Chili Bites) is a fiery Indian snack or entree dish like a fritter, with a few variations.

It is normally served as a topping with different Indian meals, however it is well known to be eaten alone as a snack. It is preferably eaten on cold winter days as it is a comfort snack.

Chili Bites consist of chickpea (gram or chana) flour & it can be made from scratch but the premixes are readily available & for this recipe I am using the premix from Gorimas.

Serve hot with a dip of your choice if preferred.

🥗

Ingredients

Scale:
Base Yield: Makes 20-25
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Step-by-Step Instructions

23 Steps
  1. Step 1

    For this recipe I am using the premix of Gorimas Chili Bite Mix.

    Step 1 visual guide
  2. Step 2

    Peel & chop the onions.

    Step 2 visual guide
  3. Step 3

    Rinse & finely chop the green chilies (& red chilies if using them).

    Step 3 visual guide
  4. Step 4

    Rinse & roughly chop the coriander (dhania).

    Step 4 visual guide
  5. Step 5

    Spinach is optional but adding it in does really add to the flavour so if using it give it a rinse & chop it up.

    Step 5 visual guide
  6. Step 6

    To a mixing bowl, add in the 250 grams of chili bite mix.

    Step 6 visual guide
  7. Step 7

    Add in salt, baking powder & red chili flakes.

    Step 7 visual guide
  8. Step 8

    Add cumin (jeera) seeds which is optional & add the chopped green chilies.

    Step 8 visual guide
  9. Step 9

    Next, add in the chopped coriander (dhania) & chopped onions.

    Step 9 visual guide
  10. Step 10

    Add in the chopped spinach which is also optional.

    Step 10 visual guide
  11. Step 11

    Mix everything well.

    Step 11 visual guide
  12. Step 12

    Gradually stir in the milk. Using milk doesn’t allow the bhajia (chili bites) to retain oil.

    Step 12 visual guide
  13. Step 13

    As the milk is being stirred in, it should form a thick batter.

    Step 13 visual guide
  14. Step 14

    The consistency should be a bit thick as it should hold the shape of a mushy ball.

    Step 14 visual guide
  15. Step 15

    Set the mixture aside & add enough vegetable oil to a pot on medium heat.

    Step 15 visual guide
  16. Step 16

    Keep a small bowl of water next to your stove as you will be using this when deep frying.

    Step 16 visual guide
  17. Step 17

    When the oil is hot enough, dip your hands into the bowl of water. This will prevent the batter from sticking to your hands.

    Step 17 visual guide
  18. Step 18

    Carefully shape the mixture into golf sized balls & drop into the oil.

    Step 18 visual guide
  19. Step 19

    Do not over full the pot & allow them to fry for 5-8 minutes until the bottom side is golden.

    Step 19 visual guide
  20. Step 20

    Once golden on the bottom side, carefully flip them over & allow the other side to fry until golden.

    Step 20 visual guide
  21. Step 21

    Once they are cooked throughout & golden all around, remove from the hot oil & place onto a paper towel to drain out the excess oil.

    Step 21 visual guide
  22. Step 22

    Plate & serve hot with a dipping sauce of your choice.

    Step 22 visual guide
  23. Step 23

    The inside should be fluffy & there should not be any uncooked batter.

    Step 23 visual guide
Video Tutorial

Watch How It's Made

Follow along with Denisiya's step-by-step video guide for Bhajia (Chilli Bites).

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Frequently Asked Questions & Cooking Tips

Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best Bhajia (Chilli Bites)

Can I adjust the spice and chilli levels in Bhajia (Chilli Bites)?

Absolutely! You can easily tailor the heat by increasing or reducing the chili powder and fresh chilies to suit your family’s palate without compromising the authentic flavor profile.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Bhajia (Chilli Bites) in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.

How do I reheat leftovers for best flavor?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Denisiya - Founder & Chef at EatMee Recipes
About the Creator

Meet Denisiya

Hi, I'm Denisiya! Food lover, recipe developer, and founder of EatMee Recipes. I specialize in authentic South African Durban Indian cuisine, comforting curries, and modern Instant Pot adaptations. Every recipe on this site is tested in my personal kitchen to ensure you get mouth-watering, foolproof results every time.

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