How to Make Manchurian in Air Fryer: A Delicious and Healthier Twist
If you are a fan of Chinese cuisine, then you must have tried Manchurian at least once. Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that has gained immense popularity over the years. It is a delightful combination of fried vegetable or meat balls in a tangy and flavorful sauce. Traditionally, Manchurian is deep-fried, which can make it high in calories and unhealthy. However, with the advent of air fryers, you can now enjoy this delicious dish with a healthier twist. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making Manchurian in an air fryer.
Ingredients:
To make Manchurian in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
For vegetable or meat balls:
– 2 cups of finely chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and onions) or minced meat (chicken, beef, or pork)
– 1 cup of bread crumbs or cornflour
– 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Oil for greasing
For the sauce:
– 2 tablespoons of oil
– 1 tablespoon of finely chopped garlic
– 1 tablespoon of finely chopped ginger
– 2 tablespoons of finely chopped onions
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of tomato ketchup
– 1 tablespoon of chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon of vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of cornflour mixed with water to make a slurry
– Salt to taste
– Finely chopped green onions for garnishing
Instructions:
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Manchurian in an air fryer.
Step 1: Preparing the vegetable or meat balls
1. In a mixing bowl, add the finely chopped vegetables or minced meat.
2. Add the bread crumbs or cornflour, all-purpose flour, ginger-garlic paste, soy sauce, and salt.
3. Mix all the ingredients well until they are combined and form a sticky mixture.
4. Shape the mixture into small balls, ensuring they are compact and hold their shape.
5. Place the vegetable or meat balls on a greased air fryer tray or basket, leaving some space between each ball for air circulation.
Step 2: Air frying the vegetable or meat balls
1. Preheat the air fryer at 180°C (356°F) for 5 minutes.
2. Once preheated, place the tray or basket with the vegetable or meat balls into the air fryer.
3. Cook the balls for about 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
4. Keep a close eye on the balls to prevent them from burning. Adjust the cooking time according to your air fryer’s settings.
Step 3: Preparing the sauce
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped garlic, ginger, and onions to the pan.
3. Sauté them for a few minutes until they turn golden brown and aromatic.
4. Add soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, vinegar, and salt to taste. Mix well.
5. Add the cornflour slurry to the pan and cook until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Turn off the heat and keep the sauce aside.
Step 4: Combining the vegetable or meat balls with the sauce
1. Once the vegetable or meat balls are cooked and crispy in the air fryer, remove them from the tray or basket.
2. Transfer the balls to a serving dish and pour the prepared sauce over them. Mix gently until the balls are coated with the sauce.
3. Garnish with finely chopped green onions, which add a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.
Now, your delicious and healthier Manchurian is ready to be served. You can enjoy it as an appetizer or serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
By using an air fryer, you eliminate the need for deep frying, which significantly reduces the amount of oil used in the dish. This makes the Manchurian healthier, as it contains less fat and calories compared to the traditional deep-fried version. Additionally, air frying retains the crispy texture of the vegetable or meat balls, giving you the same satisfying crunch without the guilt.
Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining the juiciness inside. They are a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to cook a wide range of dishes, from fries and chicken wings to vegetables and even desserts. Not only do they provide a healthier cooking alternative, but they also save time and energy.
In conclusion, making Manchurian in an air fryer is a delicious and healthier twist on the traditional recipe. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can recreate the flavorsome dish without compromising on taste or health benefits. So, grab your air fryer and start cooking this delightful Indo-Chinese delicacy today!