Arbi, also known as taro root, is a starchy vegetable that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It has a thick, hairy outer layer and a creamy white interior. Arbi is known for its unique taste and texture, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. One popular way to prepare arbi is by deep frying it, but if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can make delicious arbi in an air fryer.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air fryers have gained popularity in recent years as a healthier alternative to deep frying. They use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in crispy and delicious dishes without the need for excessive oil. By using an air fryer to make arbi, you can enjoy all the flavors and textures of deep-fried arbi with a fraction of the oil.
Ingredients:
To make delicious arbi in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– 500 grams of arbi (taro root)
– 1 tablespoon of oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon of amchur powder (dried mango powder)
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Preparation:
Follow these steps to prepare the arbi for the air fryer:
1. Start by peeling the arbi and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Keep in mind that arbi has a slimy texture, so you may want to wear gloves while handling it.
2. Once the arbi is peeled and cut, place it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to remove any excess slime.
3. After rinsing, transfer the arbi to a bowl of water and let it soak for about 15 minutes. This will help remove any remaining slime and make the arbi easier to handle.
4. Drain the water from the bowl and pat the arbi dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Cooking:
Now that the arbi is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. Follow these steps for a delicious, crispy result:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the oil, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and amchur powder to create a flavorful spice mix.
3. Add the dried arbi pieces to the bowl and toss them well, ensuring that each piece is coated with the spice mix.
4. Place the seasoned arbi in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
5. Cook the arbi in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The arbi should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Once cooked, remove the arbi from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and flavor.
7. Serve the delicious arbi as a side dish or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with rice, roti, or naan bread.
Tips and Variations:
– If you prefer a spicier arbi, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or add some chopped green chilies to the spice mix.
– To make the arbi even crispier, you can coat it in a thin layer of cornstarch or rice flour before seasoning it with the spice mix.
– Experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile. You can try adding garam masala, garlic powder, or even some dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
– If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake the arbi in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Just make sure to flip the arbi halfway through for even cooking.
The Benefits of Air-fried Arbi:
By making delicious arbi in an air fryer, you can enjoy all the flavor and crunch of deep-fried arbi while reducing your oil intake. Air frying uses significantly less oil compared to traditional deep frying, making it a healthier cooking option. Additionally, air frying helps to retain the nutrients and natural flavors of the arbi, ensuring that you get the most out of this nutritious vegetable.
In conclusion, making delicious arbi in an air fryer is a simple and healthy alternative to deep frying. With the right seasonings and proper cooking technique, you can achieve crispy and flavorful arbi that will satisfy your cravings. So why not give it a try and enjoy this tasty dish guilt-free?