Onion Tarka
Transform simple ingredients into a symphony of bold flavors with this irresistible Onion Tarka recipe! Featuring golden caramelized onions infused with the warm, earthy aroma of cumin and the zing of garlic and ginger, this dish is a perfect finishing touch for your favorite Indian meals. A sprinkle of turmeric and red chili powder adds a vibrant kick, while fresh cilantro and optional lemon juice brighten the flavors. Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, Onion Tarka is an ideal garnish for dal, curries, steamed rice, or flatbreads like naan and roti. Elevate your dishes with this flavorful, versatile topping that's as satisfying as it is aromatic!
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Ingredients
- 2 medium (thinly sliced) Onion
- 3 tablespoons Ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 4 cloves (finely chopped) Garlic
- 1 inch piece (finely grated or minced) Ginger
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Red chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon (or to taste) Salt
- 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish) Fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon (optional, for finishing) Lemon juice
Directions
Step 1
Heat the ghee or vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet over medium heat.
Step 2
Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Step 3
Add the finely chopped garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
Step 4
Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt, which helps to draw out moisture and speeds up the caramelization process.
Step 5
Cook the onions for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and slightly crispy at the edges.
Step 6
Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and remaining salt. Stir well to ensure the spices coat the onions evenly.
Step 7
Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.
Step 8
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro. If desired, drizzle with a teaspoon of lemon juice for added brightness.
Step 9
Serve the Onion Tarka immediately as a topping for dal, curry, steamed rice, or even flatbreads like naan or roti.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (387.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 559.2 |
| Total Fat 43.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 26.2g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 107.5mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1203.6mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 39.5g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 6.0g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 14.9g | |
| Protein 6.1g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 130.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 4.2mg | 0% |
| Potassium 744.1mg | 0% |
Source of Calories