Pyaz ka Salad
Crisp, tangy onion rings tossed in a zesty mix of spices and lemon juice. This classic Indian onion salad, or Laccha Pyaz, is the perfect crunchy accompaniment to rich curries and tandoori dishes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Onions
- Peel the red onions and slice them into very thin rings. A mandoline slicer works best for uniform thickness.
- Gently separate the rings with your fingers.
Soak to Crisp
- Place the onion rings in a large bowl and cover them completely with ice-cold water.
- Let them soak for 15-20 minutes. This crucial step makes the onions incredibly crisp and removes their harsh, pungent bite.
Drain and Dry
- After soaking, drain the onions thoroughly in a colander.
- Gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the spices will cling well.
Season and Toss
- Transfer the dry onion rings to a mixing bowl.
- Add the chopped green chili, coriander leaves, chaat masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, roasted cumin powder, and black salt.
- Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top.
Serve Immediately
- Using your hands or two forks, gently toss everything together until the onion rings are evenly coated with the spices.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the maximum crunch and fresh flavor.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, slice the onions as thinly and evenly as possible. A mandoline is highly recommended.
- 2Do not skip the ice water bath! It is the secret to a crunchy, less pungent salad.
- 3Always add salt and lemon juice right before serving. This prevents the onions from releasing water and becoming soggy.
- 4Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can have a slightly bitter aftertaste.
- 5For an authentic flavor, use black salt (Kala Namak). Its sulfuric notes add a unique, tangy taste.
- 6Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder to match your preferred level of spiciness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Incorporate thinly sliced cucumber, julienned carrots, or deseeded tomato slices for added texture and flavor.
Herb VariationHerb Variation
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for a cooling effect.
Sweet & TangySweet & Tangy
Add a pinch of powdered sugar or a few drops of honey to balance the tanginess of the lemon and spices.
Different SpiceDifferent Spice
For a different kind of tang, sprinkle a little sumac powder along with the other spices.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Red onions are packed with antioxidants like quercetin and anthocyanins, which help combat inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Aids Digestion
The combination of lemon juice, cumin, and black salt can help stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, promoting better gut health.
Low in Calories
As a light and refreshing side, this salad adds a burst of flavor and satisfying crunch to your meal without adding significant calories, making it great for weight management.
Boosts Immunity
The fresh lemon juice and coriander leaves provide a good dose of Vitamin C, which is essential for a strong and healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Soaking onions in ice water for 15-20 minutes makes them wonderfully crisp and significantly reduces their sharp, pungent flavor, resulting in a milder and more pleasant salad.
