Mixed Bhajias

Mixed Bhajias
serves 4

ingredients
175g/6oz gram flour
1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
11/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
11/2 teaspoons chilli powder
2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander
1 small onion, halved and sliced
1 small leek, sliced
100g/4oz cauliflower, blanched vegetable oil for deep-frying For the sauce
150ml/5fl oz Greek-style yogurt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 garlic clove, crushed

• Sift the flour and bicarbonate of soda into a mixing bowl, add the spices and fresh coriander, and mix thoroughly. Divide the mixture between three separate small bowls. Stir the onion into one bowl, the leek into another and the cauliflower into the third. Add 4 tablespoons cold water to each bowl, and mix each one to form a smooth paste.
• Heat enough oil for deep-frying in a wok or heavy pan. Using two tablespoons, form the mixture into rounds. Cooking in batches, fry the bhajias in the oil until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
• Mix all the sauce ingredients together, and pour into a small serving bowl. Serve with the warm bhajias.