Seekh kabab is a popular dish in South Asian cuisine that is known for its rich flavors and juicy texture. Traditionally, seekh kabab is made by grilling or frying the minced meat mixture on skewers, resulting in a smoky and charred taste. However, with the advent of air fryers, you can now enjoy these delectable kababs with a healthy twist. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making seekh kababs in the air fryer, providing you with a delicious and healthy recipe that you can try at home.
Ingredients Needed
Before we delve into the detailed recipe of making seekh kababs in the air fryer, let’s take a look at the essential ingredients you will need:
For the Kabab Mixture:
– 500 grams of minced meat (beef, chicken, or lamb)
– 2 medium-sized onions (finely chopped)
– 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste
– 2 green chilies (finely chopped)
– 2 tablespoons of fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)
– 1 tablespoon of fresh mint leaves (finely chopped)
– 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon of garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper powder
– Salt to taste
For the Air Fryer:
– 2 tablespoons of oil (for greasing the air fryer basket)
– 1 beaten egg (optional, for binding)
– Skewers (if required)
The Preparation Process
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making seekh kababs in the air fryer:
Step 1: Preparing the Kabab Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped onions, ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, coriander leaves, mint leaves, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly using your hands to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Step 2: Adding the Binding Agent (Optional)
If you feel that the kabab mixture is not binding well, you can add a beaten egg to the mixture. However, this step is completely optional and can be skipped if desired.
Step 3: Shaping the Kababs
Take a small portion of the kabab mixture in your hand and shape it into a cylindrical or oval-shaped kabab. If you prefer using skewers, you can thread the mixture onto them, but it is not mandatory for air frying.
Step 4: Preheating the Air Fryer
Before placing the kababs in the air fryer, it is important to preheat it for a few minutes. Set the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) and let it preheat for approximately 5 minutes.
Step 5: Greasing the Air Fryer Basket
To prevent the kababs from sticking to the air fryer basket, lightly grease it with oil. This will make it easier to remove the kababs once they are cooked.
Step 6: Air Frying the Kababs
Now, carefully place the shaped kababs in the greased air fryer basket, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 7: Adjusting the Cooking Time
Set the temperature to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit) and cook the kababs for approximately 12-15 minutes. However, it is important to keep an eye on them and flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Step 8: Checking the Doneness
To check if the kababs are cooked thoroughly, you can use a meat thermometer or cut open one kabab to see if it is cooked all the way through. The internal temperature should reach 75 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit).
Step 9: Serving the Seekh Kababs
Once the seekh kababs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with mint chutney, onion rings, and lemon wedges for a refreshing burst of flavors.
Advantages of Cooking Seekh Kababs in the Air Fryer
Cooking seekh kababs in the air fryer offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for health-conscious individuals:
1. Reduced Oil Consumption
By air frying seekh kababs, you can significantly reduce the amount of oil required for cooking. Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, requiring only a minimal amount of oil for greasing the basket. This results in a healthier version of seekh kababs without compromising on taste.
2. Retention of Nutrients
Traditional methods of cooking seekh kababs, such as deep-frying, often lead to nutrient loss due to the high temperatures involved. Air frying, on the other hand, allows for the retention of essential nutrients present in the ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal.
3. Lesser Smoke and Odor
Grilling seekh kababs can sometimes result in excessive smoke and lingering odors in your kitchen. Air frying eliminates these issues, providing a convenient and smoke-free cooking experience.
4. Time-Saving
Air frying requires less cooking time compared to traditional methods, allowing you to enjoy delicious seekh kababs in a shorter span. This makes it an ideal option for busy individuals who are looking for quick and hassle-free meals.
5. Versatility
Along with seekh kababs, air fryers can be used to cook a wide range of dishes, including French fries, chicken wings, and even desserts. Investing in an air fryer allows you to experiment with various recipes while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
In conclusion, making seekh kababs in the air fryer is a wonderful way to enjoy this flavorful dish without compromising on health. By following the simple recipe and taking advantage of the air fryer’s benefits, you can indulge in delicious seekh kababs that are lower in oil and retain their nutrients. So, grab your air fryer and start cooking these scrumptious seekh kababs today!