Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to cook food with minimal oil, resulting in healthier and lighter meals. One dish that can be easily prepared in an air fryer is papad, a thin and crispy Indian snack made from lentils or chickpea flour. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy the deliciousness of papad without adding excessive oil or spending hours in the kitchen.
What is Papad?
A versatile Indian snack
Papad, also known as papadum, is a traditional Indian snack that is typically served as an accompaniment to meals or as an appetizer. It is made by combining lentil or chickpea flour with spices and herbs, then rolling the dough into thin, circular shapes. These discs are then sun-dried or deep-fried until they become crispy and golden brown.
A healthy alternative to deep-fried snacks
Deep-fried snacks are undeniably delicious but can be detrimental to our health due to their high oil content. By air frying papad, you can significantly reduce the oil absorption without compromising on taste and texture. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to indulge in a healthier snack without sacrificing flavor.
Choosing the Right Papad
Consider the ingredients
Before you begin making papad in an air fryer, it’s essential to choose the right kind of papad. There are various types of papad available in the market, with different flavors and ingredients. Some popular options include urad dal papad, moong dal papad, and masala papad. Consider your personal preferences and dietary restrictions when selecting the papad you wish to prepare.
Check the packaging instructions
Once you’ve chosen your preferred papad, carefully read the packaging instructions. Some papads need to be deep-fried, while others can be air-fried or roasted. Make sure the papad you have selected is suitable for air frying. If it’s not, you may need to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly.
Steps to Make Papad in an Air Fryer
Preparation and preheating
To begin, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, lay out the papads you wish to cook on a clean surface. It is advisable to use a silicone mat or parchment paper to prevent the papads from sticking to the air fryer basket.
Brushing with oil
Lightly brush each papad with a small amount of oil on both sides. This step is optional, as air frying papad without any oil is also possible. However, brushing a small amount of oil can help enhance the crispiness and flavor of the papad.
Air frying process
Carefully place the oiled papads in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. If your air fryer has a smaller capacity, you may need to cook the papads in batches. Set the timer for 3-4 minutes and cook the papads until they become golden brown and crispy.
Flipping and monitoring
After the initial cooking time, flip each papad using tongs or a spatula to ensure even browning. Continue air frying for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the papads to prevent them from burning. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size and thickness of the papads.
Removing and cooling
Once the papads are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket. Place them on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to allow any excess oil to drain. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to ensure maximum crispiness.
Serving Ideas and Variations
Traditional accompaniment
Papad is traditionally served alongside a variety of Indian meals. It pairs well with dishes such as biryani, dal, curry, or even a humble plate of rice and lentils. The crispiness of the papad provides a delightful contrast to the textures and flavors of the main course.
Snack time favorites
Papad can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack. Serve it with a selection of chutneys, such as mint, tamarind, or coriander chutney, for a burst of flavors. Additionally, you can experiment with different toppings, such as finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and chaat masala, for an extra kick.
Variety of flavors
If you’d like to experiment with flavors, you can get creative with the seasoning. Sprinkle your favorite spices, such as chili powder, cumin, black salt, or even cheese powder, onto the papads before air frying. This will add an exciting twist to the classic papad and allow you to customize the taste according to your preferences.
Conclusion
Making papad in an air fryer is a quick and healthy option for enjoying this beloved Indian snack. By using minimal oil and cooking at high heat, you can achieve the perfect crispiness without compromising on taste. Whether you prefer a traditional accompaniment or a standalone snack, papad prepared in an air fryer is sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, add a pack of papad to your pantry, and explore the delicious possibilities with your trusty air fryer.