Crispy Besan Capsicum Fritters

Ingredients

• Capsicum (bell pepper) - 4 whole
• Besan (chickpea flour) - 1 cup
• Baking powder - 1/4 tsp
• Red chili powder - 1 tsp
• Coriander powder - 1/2 tsp
• Cumin powder (jeera) - 1/4 tsp
• Garam masala powder - 1/4 tsp
• Ginger-garlic paste - 1 tsp
• Lime juice - 1 tsp
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as needed
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. 1Wash the capsicums, remove the core and seeds, and cut them into medium pieces; sprinkle with a little salt and set aside while you mix the batter.
2. 2In a large bowl, combine besan, baking powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, lime juice, and salt, then whisk while adding enough water to form a thick batter.
3. 3Stir the batter until smooth and lump-free; it should coat the back of a spoon and hold on the capsicum pieces.
4. 4Heat oil in a deep pan until it is hot enough for deep frying.
5. 5Dip each capsicum piece into the batter, let the excess drip off, and carefully lower it into the hot oil; deep-fry the pieces until they turn golden brown and crisp.
6. 6Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
7. 7Serve the fritters hot with ketchup or chili sauce.
8. 8Optional: garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a bright finish.