Crispy Onion Rings
Onion rings, a timeless snack, are simple to create with a delightful crunch. Begin by slicing large onions into rings and separating them. Prepare a batter
using all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder for a hint of spice. Gradually add chilled water to the dry ingredients, mixing until you have a smooth consistency. Ensure the batter isn't too thin. Dip the onion rings into the batter, ensuring each one is fully coated, and then carefully lower them into hot oil for deep frying. Fry until golden brown and crispy, turning them to ensure even cooking. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot, ideally with a spicy dipping sauce. These onion rings pair wonderfully with chai, offering a savory and satisfying crunch.
Spicy Potato Fritters
Potato fritters, or aloo pakoras, offer a comforting and flavorful snack option. Begin by peeling and thinly slicing potatoes. Prepare a batter by mixing gram flour (besan), salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and asafoetida (hing). Add water gradually to achieve a thick batter consistency, making sure there are no lumps. Dip the potato slices into the batter, ensuring they are well coated. Heat oil in a deep frying pan and gently drop the batter-covered potato slices into it. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally for even cooking. Remove them from the oil and drain any excess grease on paper towels. Serve these hot and crispy fritters with a cup of chai, preferably accompanied by mint chutney or tomato ketchup. Their spicy and savory taste will perfectly complement the warmth of the tea.
Masala Cheese Toast
Masala cheese toast provides a quick and flavorful snack. Start by toasting slices of bread until lightly golden. Spread a thin layer of butter on each slice. In a bowl, mix grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) with finely chopped green chilies, onions, and coriander leaves. Season with salt and a pinch of chaat masala for extra flavor. Evenly distribute this cheese mixture on the toasted bread slices. Place the prepared bread slices in a preheated oven or under a broiler until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden and bubbly. Cut the toast diagonally and serve immediately. This masala cheese toast offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to your cup of chai, especially for a quick and satisfying snack.
Crunchy Samosas
Samosas are a beloved snack that adds variety to any tea-time experience. Prepare the samosa dough by mixing all-purpose flour (maida) with a pinch of salt and carom seeds (ajwain). Add warm oil (moin) and rub it into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water and knead into a stiff dough. For the filling, combine mashed potatoes, peas, spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, and red chili powder. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and cut into circles or squares. Shape each piece into a cone, fill with the potato mixture, and seal the edges tightly. Deep fry the samosas in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy. Serve these homemade samosas hot with tamarind chutney or mint-coriander chutney. The crispy, flavorful samosas pair wonderfully with chai.
Besan Ladoo Delight
Besan ladoos, a classic Indian sweet, provide a delightful treat to complement your chai. Begin by dry roasting gram flour (besan) in a pan until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. In a separate pan, melt ghee (clarified butter) and add sugar and cardamom powder. Mix the roasted besan with the ghee-sugar mixture. Ensure a smooth consistency and allow it to cool enough to handle. Shape the mixture into small round ladoos, using your hands, and garnish with chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios. Allow the ladoos to set completely. These rich, sweet ladoos provide a perfect balance to the savory snacks and the warmth of the chai, making them a perfect end to your tea-time experience.
