A few days ago, I wrote about the quintessential Bar Snack called Chakna, or simply finger food or light snack, that pairs well with drinks and extends beyond peanuts or wafers, yet is enough to satisfy the drinker’s palate while remaining light enough not to make them feel overly stuffed. Yesterday, while jostling for space at a nearby local beer shop, I noticed a few guys standing outside, enjoying a chilled can of beer and having some delicious Kanda Bhajiya. It reminded me of another product in the Chakna story. On numerous rides, especially during our post-lunch pit stops, I have been satisfied with kanda bhajiya or batata bhajiya accompanied by my favourite— a cup of strong black coffee without sugar. This recharges us for the rest of our journey until we reach our destination. I prefer my kanda bhajiya and batata or potato bhajiya to be crisp-fried (nothing beats a crispy bhajiya during Mumbai rains). It is the go-to comfort food for us Maharashtrians since we have plenty of locally grown onions. A thin batter and finely sliced onions are essential to recreate the perfect Kanda Bhajiya or, for that matter, Potato Bhajiya. As the monsoon advances across Maharashtra, the consumption of Bhajiya increases. Let me share some excellent places that serve incredibly tasty Kanda and Batata Bhajiya and, of course, my hot favourite – Mirchi Bhajiya.
Crisp fried Kanda Bhajiya served at a highway dhaba at Lonavla. Practically any roadside eatery at Lonavla serves yummy crispy Bhajiyas.
Pit stop break while on a ride to Alibaug. Shiv Sai Hotel, Mangaon.
A melange of Kanda & Potato Bhajiya served alongside spicy Green Chilli Thecha at Shree Samarth Misal Pav at Khopoli.
Stuffed Mirchi Bhajiyas at my Cafe – Cutlurekurry Foods at Nerul, Navi Mumbai.
Kanda Bhajiya at a shack at Alibaug Beach.
Shree Samarth Misal tops my list as the best to serve Kanda & Batata Bhajiya. Rustic taste and rustic ambience and served on paper with Thecha and Dry Garlic Chilli Chutney, this is a must try if you are visiting Khopoli.
Batata or Aloo bhujiya. Crisp and drenched in oil – just as I like it.
