Spicy Onion Salad Recipe – Chaat Masala & Mint Indian Side Dish

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Spicy Onion Salad Recipe – Chaat Masala & Mint Indian Side Dish

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for a quick, flavorful side dish to brighten up your meals. This spicy onion salad is my go-to – it’s seriously addictive, takes just 5 minutes to whip up, and adds a fantastic zing to everything from dal-chawal to your favorite Indian snacks. I first made this when I was craving something fresh and spicy, and it’s been a staple ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average onion salad. The combination of fiery red chili powder, tangy chaat masala, and refreshing mint is just chef’s kiss. It’s incredibly versatile, super easy to make (seriously, anyone can do it!), and a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor to your plate. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that one onion you’ve been meaning to use!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant salad:

• 1 large onion
• ¼ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 0.5-1 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Rock salt, to taste (or regular salt)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because a few little things can make a big difference:

• Rock Salt vs. Regular Salt: I love using rock salt (kala namak) in this salad. It has a slightly sulfurous flavor that really elevates the taste, but regular salt works perfectly fine if that’s what you have on hand.
• Chaat Masala Variations: Chaat masala blends vary from brand to brand, and even region to region! Some are tangier, some are spicier. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
• Onion Types: While I usually use a regular yellow onion, you can totally experiment. Red onions are milder and add a beautiful color, while white onions have a sharper bite. My grandmother always used a mix of red and yellow for the best flavor!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s so simple, you won’t believe it.

1. First, thinly slice your onion into rings or rounds. The thinner, the better, in my opinion!
2. Now, in a mixing bowl, add those beautiful onion slices. Sprinkle in the red chili powder, chaat masala, and chopped mint leaves.
3. Add a generous pinch of rock salt (or regular salt). Remember, you can always add more later, so start small!
4. Drizzle the lemon juice over everything. This adds a lovely tang and helps soften the onions a bit.
5. Time to toss! Gently but thoroughly mix all the ingredients until the onions are evenly coated.
6. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning. Need more spice? Add a pinch more chili powder. Want more tang? A squeeze more lemon juice. It’s all about making it your perfect salad.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t skip the mint! It really brightens up the flavors.
• If you’re sensitive to onions, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10-15 minutes to reduce their sharpness.
• For a more intense flavor, gently massage the onions with the spices.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level Adjustments: If you’re not a fan of heat, reduce the amount of red chili powder or even omit it altogether. My friend, Priya, makes a super mild version for her kids.
• Vinegar Substitution: Don’t have lemon juice? A teaspoon of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar works just as well.
• No-Mint Option: If you’re not a mint person (gasp!), you can leave it out. It won’t be quite the same, but still delicious.
• Quick Pickling Variation: For a slightly pickled flavor, add a tablespoon of vinegar and let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This spicy onion salad is incredibly versatile! Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• As a side dish with dal-chawal (lentils and rice).
• Alongside samosas or pakoras for a flavorful snack.
• As a topping for chaat (Indian street food).
• With grilled meats or vegetables.

Storage Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the onions will lose their crispness over time. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just be aware that the flavor will mellow out a bit.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Can this salad be made ahead of time? It’s best served immediately, but you can slice the onions and combine the spices up to a couple of hours in advance. Add the lemon juice just before serving.
• What is Chaat Masala and where can I find it? Chaat masala is a tangy and savory spice blend commonly used in Indian cuisine. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, and increasingly in the international aisle of larger supermarkets.
• Can I use a different type of onion? Absolutely! Red onions, white onions, or even shallots will work.
• Is rock salt necessary for this recipe? No, it’s not essential. Regular salt works just fine.
• What dishes pair well with this spicy onion salad? So many! It’s great with anything Indian, grilled meats, or even just as a crunchy topping for sandwiches.