How to make Mirchi Bajji easily at home?

About Mirchi Bajji .

Mirchi Bajji, also known as Chili Bajji or Mirapakaya Bajji, is a popular South Indian Street food snack that consists of deep-fried chili peppers coated in a spicy gram flour (besan) batter. It is a beloved snack enjoyed across India, especially during monsoon season or as an appetizer in festive occasions. it offers a tantalizing combination of spicy green chilies encased in a crispy and flavorful batter, making it a favorite among spice lovers. Served hot with chutney or sauce, Mirchi Bajji is known for its addictive taste and irresistible crunch, making it a must-try for street food enthusiasts.

To make Mirchi Bajji, follow these steps:

Ingredients for making Mirchi Bajji:

• Large green chilies (such as banana peppers or Anaheim peppers)
• Gram flour (besan)
• Rice flour
• Baking soda (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Red chili powder
• Turmeric powder
• Water
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions for making Mirchi Bajji:

1. Prepare the Chilies:
   • Wash the green chilies and pat them dry with a paper towel.
   • Make a lengthwise slit in each chili, ensuring not to cut them completely in half. Remove the seeds if you prefer a milder taste.
2. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, rice flour, a pinch of baking soda (if using), salt, red chili powder, and turmeric powder.
   • Gradually add water to the dry ingredients while whisking to form a smooth and thick batter. The batter should coat the back of a spoon without dripping too much.
3. Heat Oil for Frying:
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
4. Coat the Chilies:
   • Dip each slit green chili into the prepared batter, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
5. Deep Fry:
   • Gently slide the coated chilies into the hot oil, one at a time. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry the chilies in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally for even frying. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
   • Once it is golden brown and crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve Hot:
   • Serve it hot with your favorite chutney, sauce, or a sprinkle of chaat masala for extra flavor.
8. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy the crispy and spicy Mirchi Bajjis as a delicious snack or appetizer with friends and family.

Note: Be cautious while handling and consuming it as the green chilies can be quite spicy. Adjust the amount of red chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.

How to make Healthier Version for Mirchi Bajji.

To make a healthier version of it, you can make some simple modifications to the traditional recipe to reduce calories, saturated fat, and sodium while still retaining flavor and texture. Here’s how:

Ingredients:

• Large green chilies (such as banana peppers or Anaheim peppers)
• Whole wheat flour or chickpea flour (besan)
• Rice flour (optional)
• Baking soda (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Red chili powder
• Turmeric powder
• Water
• Cooking spray or minimal oil for shallow frying or baking

Instructions:

1. Choose Healthier Flour Options:
   • Instead of using only gram flour (besan), you can mix it with whole wheat flour or chickpea flour to increase the fiber content and add nutritional value to the batter.
2. Reduce Oil Usage:
   • Instead of deep frying, opt for shallow frying or baking the Mirchi Bajjis to reduce the amount of oil used in cooking. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for a virtually oil-free cooking method.
3. Adjust Batter Consistency:
   • Make a thick batter using minimal water to coat the chilies. A thicker batter will prevent excessive absorption of oil during cooking, resulting in lighter and healthier Mirchi Bajjis.
4. Seasoning and Spices:
   • Use minimal salt and spices to flavor the batter. You can reduce the amount of red chili powder if you prefer a milder taste or replace it with other herbs and spices for added flavor.
5. Baking Option:
   • If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chilies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Shallow Frying Method:
   • Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spray it with cooking spray or add a minimal amount of oil. Place the coated chilies on the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, flipping occasionally.
7. Serve with Healthy Dips:
   • Pair the healthier Mirchi Bajjis with nutritious chutneys or dips made from yogurt, mint, or coriander. These dips add flavor and freshness without compromising on healthiness.

By making these healthier modifications, you can enjoy it with reduced calories and fat content while still indulging in their delicious flavor and crispy texture.

Nutritional Value for Mirchi Bajji.

The nutritional value of it can vary based on factors such as the size of the chilies, the thickness of the batter, and the cooking method used. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Mirchi Bajji (2 pieces):

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
• Total Fat: 8-12 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 200-300 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 1-2 grams
• Protein: 3-5 grams

It’s important to note that these values are estimates and can vary depending on factors such as the size of the chilies, the thickness of the batter, and the amount of oil absorbed during frying. It is a deep-fried snack that is moderately high in calories and fat due to the frying process. However, it provides some dietary fiber and protein from the chilies and gram flour batter. Enjoy Mirchi Bajji in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Health Benefits of Mirchi Bajji.

While it is a delicious and popular snack, it’s important to note that it’s typically deep-fried and may not offer significant health benefits. However, here are some potential health benefits of Mirchi Bajji when consumed in moderation:

1. Capsaicin Content: Green chilies used in Mirchi Bajji contain capsaicin, a compound known for its potential health benefits. Capsaicin has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties.
2. Vitamin C: Green chilies are a good source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient with antioxidant properties that help boost immunity, promote skin health, and support wound healing.
3. Dietary Fiber: The gram flour (besan) used in the batter of Mirchi Bajji provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and may contribute to a feeling of fullness.
4. Protein: Gram flour also provides protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
5. Moderate Consumption: Enjoying Mirchi Bajji in moderation can contribute to the enjoyment of a balanced diet and provide a source of pleasure and satisfaction, which is important for mental well-being.

It’s important to note that Mirchi Bajji is often deep-fried and may contain high levels of calories, saturated fat, and sodium, especially if consumed frequently or in large quantities. To maximize potential health benefits and minimize risks, consider healthier cooking methods such as shallow frying or baking, and enjoy it as an occasional treat rather than a regular indulgence. Additionally, individuals with gastrointestinal issues or sensitivity to spicy foods should consume Mirchi Bajji with caution.

Tips and Tricks for making Mirchi Bajji.

Here are some tips and tricks to make delicious Mirchi Bajji:

1. Choose the Right Chilies: Select large, mild green chilies such as banana peppers or Anaheim peppers for Mirchi Bajji. Avoid extremely spicy varieties unless you prefer intense heat.
2. Remove Seeds: To reduce the spiciness of the chilies, consider removing the seeds and membranes before stuffing or battering them.
3. Prepare Batter Consistency: Ensure the batter has a smooth and thick consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon well without dripping too much. Adjust the amount of water or flour to achieve the desired thickness.
4. Season the Batter: Add spices like red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the batter for flavor. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
5. Coat Evenly: Coat the stuffed or plain chilies evenly with the batter to ensure uniform frying and consistent flavor.
6. Control Oil Temperature: Heat the oil to the right temperature before frying it. If the oil is too hot, the exterior may brown quickly while the interior remains uncooked. If it’s too cool, the bajjis may absorb excess oil and become soggy.
7. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry it in batches to prevent overcrowding in the frying pan. This ensures even cooking and crispy texture.
8. Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, place the Mirchi Bajjis on paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
9. Serve Hot: Mirchi Bajjis are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve them immediately with your favorite chutney or sauce for dipping.
10. Safety Precautions: Be cautious when handling hot oil and stuffed chilies. Use kitchen tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the bajjis to and from the oil to prevent burns.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make delicious Mirchi Bajjis that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Mirchi Bajji.

Here are some serving suggestions for Mirchi Bajji:

1. Chutneys: Serve it with a variety of chutneys such as mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or coconut chutney. These flavorful dips complement the spiciness of the bajjis and add an extra dimension of taste.
2. Sauces: Pair it with classic sauces like tomato ketchup, chili sauce, or garlic sauce. These sauces provide a tangy and savory contrast to the spicy bajjis.
3. Yogurt Dip: Prepare a simple yogurt dip by mixing yogurt with salt, roasted cumin powder, and chopped coriander leaves. This cool and creamy dip balances the heat of the bajjis and offers a refreshing taste.
4. Onion Rings: Serve thinly sliced onion rings alongside Mirchi Bajji. The crispiness of the onions complements the texture of the bajjis and adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
5. Lemon Wedges: Serve it with lemon wedges for squeezing over the bajjis. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the fried batter and enhances the flavors of the dish.
6. Fried Green Chilies: For an extra spicy kick, fry some additional green chilies along with it and serve them together. These fried chilies can be eaten on their own or stuffed inside the bajjis for those who enjoy extra heat.
7. Tea or Coffee: Enjoy it as a snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The combination of spicy bajjis and a warm beverage is a classic pairing enjoyed by many.
8. Accompaniments: Serve it as part of a larger spread of Indian snacks such as samosas, pakoras, and bhajis for a delicious and satisfying snack platter.

These serving suggestions will enhance the enjoyment of it and provide a variety of flavors and textures to delight your taste buds. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy this spicy snack.

FAQs for Mirchi Bajji.