Onion Bhaji

Ingredients

• 2 onions (large yellow or white)
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 2/3 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 quart vegetable oil

Directions

1. 1

   Peel the onions and slice them so they form rings. Slices should be as thin as possible (1/8 to 3/16"). Cut the rings to form strands about 1-2" long.

2. 2

   Put onion in a large mixing bowl, add spices and salt and mix thoroughlly. Put about half of the vinegar in and gradually stir in the flour until it is possible to form 1 1/2 to 2" balls with the mixture. Use flour and remaining vinegar to adjust consistency.

3. 3

   Heat the oil in a suitable deep fryer or pan (careful to avoid overflow when placing food in the oil. Also have a large water-soaked towel nearby in case of spillage onto the burner). Heat to 350°F.

4. 4

   Form the onion/flour mixture into 1 1/2 to 2" balls and carefully place them in the oil using a metal spoon or suitable tool. Only fry enough at one time such that they don't stick to eachother. Fry to dark golden brown.

5. 5

   Remove cooked bhajis from oil and drain as with other fried foods. Serve on absorbent towel to soak up excess oil.