Stuffed Fried Green Chillies
A classic Rajasthani snack where large green chillies are filled with a tangy, spiced chickpea flour mixture, dipped in batter, and fried to crispy perfection. The perfect crunchy, savory bite for a rainy day or tea time.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the green chillies.
- b.Wash and thoroughly dry the green chillies.
- c.Make a slit lengthwise down one side of each chilli, keeping the stem intact.
- d.Carefully scrape out and discard the seeds and membrane to reduce the heat. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the besan stuffing.
- b.Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a pan over low-medium heat. Add the hing.
- c.Add 1 cup of besan and roast for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and slightly changes color. Be careful not to burn it.
- d.Add the stuffing spices: 0.25 tsp turmeric powder, 0.5 tsp red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, amchur, garam masala, and 0.75 tsp salt. Mix well and cook for 1 minute.
- e.Sprinkle a little water (about 1/4 cup) and mix until the besan forms a thick, crumbly paste. Turn off the heat and let the stuffing cool completely.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stuff the chillies.
- b.Once the stuffing is cool, take small portions and carefully fill it into the slit green chillies.
- c.Press the stuffing in gently but firmly. Do not overstuff. Set the stuffed chillies aside.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Prepare the batter.
- b.In a mixing bowl, combine 1.5 cups besan, rice flour, ajwain, 0.25 tsp turmeric powder, 0.5 tsp red chili powder, baking soda, and 0.75 tsp salt.
- c.Gradually add about 1 cup of water, whisking continuously to create a smooth, thick, and lump-free batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter, thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- d.Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Fry the stuffed chillies.
- b.Heat 2 cups of oil in a kadai or deep pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- c.Dip one stuffed chilli into the batter, ensuring it's completely and evenly coated. Let any excess batter drip off.
- d.Carefully slide the coated chilli into the hot oil. Fry 3-4 chillies at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- e.Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the batter is golden brown, crisp, and cooked through.
- f.Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve hot with mint chutney or tomato ketchup.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use large, light green chillies like Bhavnagari mirchi, as they are milder and perfect for stuffing.
- 2Ensure the batter is not too thin, otherwise it will not coat the chillies properly and will absorb too much oil.
- 3Fry on a consistent medium heat. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the chilli inside is cooked.
- 4Adding rice flour to the batter is the secret to an extra crispy coating.
- 5Let the stuffing cool down completely before filling, or it may make the chillies soggy.
- 6Do not overcrowd the pan while frying, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in oily vadas.
- 7For a lower-fat alternative, these can be baked or air-fried. Spray the battered chillies with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes or air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
For a lower-fat version, arrange the stuffed and coated chillies in an air fryer basket. Spray with oil and air fry at 180°C (360°F) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
quickQuick
Instead of the besan stuffing, use a spiced mashed potato filling (like the one used for samosas) for a different texture and quicker preparation.
high proteinHigh protein
Mix 1/4 cup of crumbled paneer (cottage cheese) into the besan stuffing to increase the protein content and add a creamy texture.
