Surati Bhajia

Thick-battered Surati fritters — the Surati bhajia uses a thick, well-seasoned besan batter with ajwain, red chilli, and bicarbonate of soda that makes the exterior light and airy while frying, unlike the thin batter of North Indian pakoras. Onion rings, fresh green chilli, batata slices, or brinjal rounds are coated generously and deep-fried in fresh oil; the thick batter puffs as it fries and the interior remains steamy and soft. Surati bhajias are eaten with a specific accompaniment: a tiny cup of Surati green chutney and a glass of hot masala chai. The combination of fresh-fried bhajia with masala chai is considered one of Surat's most perfect everyday pleasures, especially during the monsoon.