Laccha Onion Salad
A crunchy, tangy North Indian salad of onion rings tossed with lemon juice, chaat masala, and chili. This classic dhaba-style laccha pyaz is the perfect zesty side dish for rich curries and kebabs, ready in just 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Onions
- b.Peel the red onions and slice them into very thin, uniform rings. A mandoline slicer works best for this.
- c.Gently separate the slices into individual rings and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Soak for Crispness
- b.Add the ice cubes and cold water to the bowl, ensuring all onion rings are fully submerged.
- c.Let the onions soak for 10-15 minutes. This crucial step removes their harsh pungency and makes them incredibly crisp.
- d.Drain the onions completely in a colander. Pat them thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove all excess moisture.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Season and Toss
- b.Transfer the dry onion rings to a clean mixing bowl.
- c.Sprinkle over the Kashmiri red chili powder, chaat masala, and salt.
- d.Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and add the optional finely chopped green chili.
- e.Gently toss everything together with your hands or tongs until the onion rings are evenly coated with the spices.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Garnish the salad with finely chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Serve immediately to enjoy its maximum crunch and freshness. It pairs perfectly with tandoori dishes, rich curries, and biryani.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For perfectly uniform rings, use a mandoline slicer. If using a knife, ensure it is very sharp.
- 2Do not skip the ice water bath. It is the secret to a non-pungent, crunchy salad.
- 3Ensure the onions are completely dry before adding spices. Any residual water will make the salad soggy and dilute the flavors.
- 4This salad is best made just before serving as the onions will release water and lose their crispness over time.
- 5For a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions or shallots instead of red onions.
- 6If you don't have Kashmiri red chili powder, use a pinch of paprika for color and a tiny pinch of regular chili powder for heat.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sirke Wale Pyaz
For a pickled version, skip the ice water soak and instead marinate the onion rings in a mixture of 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1/4 cup water, 1 tsp sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
Minty FreshMinty Fresh
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for an extra layer of freshness.
Tomato & CucumberTomato & Cucumber
Add thinly sliced, deseeded tomatoes and cucumber for a more substantial salad.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are packed with antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which helps combat inflammation and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Immunity Booster
Onions contain Vitamin C and other compounds that help strengthen the immune system, protecting the body against common infections.
Low in Calories
This salad is extremely low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those managing their weight without compromising on flavor.
Supports Heart Health
The flavonoids in onions may help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's low in calories and fat, and onions are a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.