Laccha Pyaaz
Crisp, tangy onion rings tossed in a simple mix of Indian spices. This refreshing North Indian salad is the perfect zesty accompaniment to rich curries, kebabs, and biryanis, ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Onions
- b.Peel the red onions and slice them into thin, uniform rings. A mandoline slicer works best for this.
- c.Carefully separate the slices into individual rings and place them in a large bowl.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Soak for Crispness
- b.Add the ice cubes and cold water to the bowl with the onion rings, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- c.Let the onions soak for 15-20 minutes. This crucial step makes them incredibly crisp and reduces their sharp, pungent bite.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Drain and Dry
- b.Drain the onions thoroughly in a colander, shaking off as much water as possible.
- c.Gently pat the onion rings dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove any remaining moisture. They should be dry to the touch.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Season and Toss
- b.Transfer the dry onion rings to a clean mixing bowl.
- c.Sprinkle the Kashmiri red chili powder, chaat masala, and salt over the onions.
- d.Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and add the optional chopped green chili.
- e.Using your hands or two forks, gently toss everything together until the onion rings are evenly coated with the spices.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve Immediately
- b.Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Serve immediately as a side dish. The salad will lose its crispness if left to sit for too long.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking onions in ice water is the most important step for a crunchy, less pungent salad. Do not skip it.
- 2Always serve immediately. The salt will draw water from the onions, making them soggy if left to sit.
- 3Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin and even onion rings.
- 4For a milder version, reduce or omit the green chili and use a little less Kashmiri red chili powder.
- 5Patting the onions completely dry after soaking ensures the spices cling to them properly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbaceous Twist
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for an extra layer of freshness.
Earthy FlavorEarthy Flavor
Add 1/4 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder (bhuna jeera) along with the other spices for a smoky, earthy note.
Extra TangExtra Tang
Add a pinch of amchur (dry mango powder) for an additional layer of tanginess that complements the chaat masala.
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Toss in some thinly sliced cucumber or deseeded tomato wedges just before serving for added texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Red onions are packed with powerful antioxidants like quercetin and anthocyanins, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Boosts Immunity
The combination of Vitamin C from fresh lemon juice and beneficial compounds in raw onions helps strengthen the immune system and fight off infections.
Aids Digestion
Spices like chaat masala can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, while onions themselves are a source of prebiotics that support a healthy gut.
Low in Calories
This salad adds a burst of flavor and satisfying crunch to meals with very few calories, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
Frequently asked questions
Soaking onions in ice water for 15-20 minutes is a key technique that makes them very crisp and significantly reduces their sharp, pungent flavor, resulting in a more pleasant and refreshing salad.