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Air-Fried Mixed Vegetable Pakora: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Favourite

Pakoras, also known as bhajis, are a beloved snack in Indian cuisine, typically enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a starter before a grand meal. These delightful fritters, made from assorted vegetables dipped in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried to a tantalising crunch, are hard to resist. However, the traditional method can be quite oily and heavy, which is where the air fryer steps in, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on taste or texture.

The Allure of Air Frying

Air frying uses hot air circulation to cook food, significantly reducing the amount of oil needed. This method provides a crispy outer layer while keeping the insides moist and tender. For those looking to enjoy their favourite indulgences without the guilt, air frying is a fantastic option that maintains flavour while cutting down on calories.

Ingredients

To make air-fried mixed vegetable pakora, you will need:

For the Batter:

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 2-3 tablespoons rice flour (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• Water (to achieve the desired consistency)
• A splash of lemon juice (optional)

For the Vegetables:

• 1 medium potato, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small carrot, grated
• ½ cup spinach, chopped
• ½ cup cauliflower florets
• ½ cup bell peppers, diced
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

For Air Frying:

• Cooking spray or a little oil, for brushing

Method

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Wash and Chop: Rinse all the vegetables thoroughly, and chop or slice them as indicated above.
2. Mix Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables and add a pinch of salt. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out some moisture from the vegetables, making them tender.

Making the Batter

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the gram flour, rice flour, spices, and salt.
2. Add Water: Gradually add water to the dry ingredients to create a thick batter. It should be thick enough to coat the vegetables without dripping off completely. You can adjust the thickness by adding more water or flour as necessary.

Coating the Vegetables

1. Mix Together: Add the chopped vegetables to the batter, ensuring every piece is well-coated. The batter should cling to the vegetables without being runny.

Air Frying

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 3 minutes.
2. Arrange the Pakoras: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Carefully place the coated vegetables in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded – this will help them cook evenly.
3. Cooking: Air fry the pakoras for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. They should become golden brown and crispy.

Serving

1. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pakoras from the air fryer and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or a simple yoghurt dip.

Conclusion

The air-fried mixed vegetable pakora is not just a guilt-free version of the traditional snack; it’s a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavour. With its crispy texture and aromatic spices, this healthier twist is sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect for an evening snack or as a party appetiser, these pakoras will have everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy your culinary creation!