Can you substitute rice flour for gram when making Onion Bhajees?

You can substitute rice flour for gram flour in onion bhajees, but it will change the texture and flavor of the bhajees.

Here's what you need to know:

Differences:

* Texture: Gram flour (besan) gives onion bhajees a crispy, slightly chewy texture. Rice flour will result in a lighter, crispier bhajee, but it might be a bit more fragile.

* Flavor: Gram flour has a nutty, slightly earthy flavor. Rice flour has a more neutral flavor, so the bhajees will taste more like onions and spices.

* Binding: Gram flour binds well, creating a cohesive batter. Rice flour can be a bit more difficult to bind and may require more liquid to achieve a batter-like consistency.

Making the Substitution:

1. Ratio: Use a 1:1 ratio of rice flour to gram flour.

2. Liquid: You might need to add a bit more water or milk to the batter to get the right consistency. Start with a little and gradually add more.

3. Spice: Since rice flour is more neutral, you might want to add a bit more spice to your batter to balance out the flavor.

Tips:

* Chill the batter: Chilling the batter for 30 minutes before frying helps the bhajees hold their shape and become crispier.

* Fry in small batches: This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the oil from getting too cold.

* Drain on paper towels: This helps remove excess oil.

Ultimately, substituting rice flour for gram flour is a matter of personal preference. You might find you prefer the lighter texture and flavor of the rice flour bhajees. Just experiment and see what works best for you!