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Air Fryer Mixed Vegetable Pakora: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Snack

Pakora, a beloved snack in Indian cuisine, typically involves deep-frying a mix of vegetables coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter. While delicious, traditional pakoras can be heavy and greasy. Enter the air fryer – a revolutionary kitchen gadget that allows us to enjoy the crispiness of fried food with significantly less oil. In this article, we will explore how to make delightful air fryer mixed vegetable pakoras that are not only healthier but also packed with flavour.

The Allure of Pakoras

Pakoras are often enjoyed as a teatime snack, served with chutneys or yogurt for dipping. They can be made with a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, onions, spinach, and cauliflower, making them versatile and adaptable to your preference. The crunchiness of the outer layer combined with the soft, spiced filling ensures that pakoras are a sure-fire hit, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack.

Why Air Fry?

Using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking, making it a more health-conscious choice. Air fryers use hot air circulation to achieve a crispy texture without the unhealthy fats typically found in deep-fried foods. This means you can indulge in your favourite snacks guilt-free.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Mixed Vegetable Pakora

To make approximately 4 servings of air fryer mixed vegetable pakora, you will need:

• For the Pakoras:
  • 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium potato, finely cubed
  • 1 small carrot, grated
  • 1/2 cup cauliflower florets, chopped small
  • 1-2 green chillies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt, to taste
  • Water, as needed
  • Cooking oil spray

Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Start by washing, peeling, and chopping all the vegetables into small pieces. Thin slices and small cubes will help them cook evenly in the air fryer.

2. Make the Batter:
   In a large bowl, combine the chickpea flour, cumin seeds, turmeric, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add water to form a smooth, thick batter. Be careful not to add too much water; the batter should coat the vegetables without being too runny.

3. Mix Vegetables with Batter:
   Add the sliced onions, cubed potatoes, grated carrot, cauliflower florets, and chopped green chillies to the batter. Mix until all the vegetables are well coated. You can adjust the seasoning according to your taste at this stage.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

5. Arrange the Pakoras:
   Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixed vegetable batter into the basket, ensuring they have space around them for the hot air to circulate. Do not overcrowd the basket; you may need to cook in batches.

6. Air Fry:
   Cook the pakoras at 180°C (350°F) for about 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking. Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer.

7. Serve:
   Serve your air fryer mixed vegetable pakoras hot, garnished with fresh coriander, along with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or a simple yogurt dip.

Conclusion

Air fryer mixed vegetable pakoras are a lighter alternative that captures the essence of the traditional snack while offering a healthier option without sacrificing flavour. They are perfect for afternoon tea or as a starter for any gathering. The air fryer not only elevates the texture of the pakoras but also makes the cooking process simpler and quicker. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this scrumptious, guilt-free snack! Enjoy with family and friends for a delightful culinary experience.