Onion pakoda, also known as onion fritters, is a popular Indian snack that is loved by many. Its crispy texture and spicy taste make it the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of tea on a rainy day. Traditionally, onion pakodas are deep-fried, which can make them quite unhealthy due to the excessive oil absorption. However, with the advancement in kitchen gadgets, it is now possible to make onion pakodas in a much healthier way – by using an air fryer!
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years, mainly due to their ability to cook food with significantly less oil than deep-frying. By using rapid air technology, air fryers circulate hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This makes air fryers an excellent alternative for those who are health-conscious but still want to enjoy their favorite snacks like onion pakodas.
The Ingredients
To make onion pakodas in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 cup gram flour (besan)
– 2 tablespoons rice flour
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
– Salt to taste
– Water as needed
– Cooking spray
The Method
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make crispy onion pakodas in an air fryer:
1. Start by preparing the onions. Peel them and slice them thinly. You can either use a knife or a mandoline slicer for this step. Thinly sliced onions ensure a crispy texture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine gram flour, rice flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly incorporated.
3. Slowly add water to the dry ingredients and mix until you achieve a thick batter-like consistency. The batter should coat the back of a spoon without dripping too easily.
4. Add the sliced onions to the batter and mix until all the onion slices are well-coated. The batter should cling to the onions and create a thick coating.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Once the air fryer is preheated, take small portions of the onion mixture and drop them onto the prepared basket. Ensure that the pakodas are evenly spaced to allow the hot air to circulate around them.
7. Lightly spray the pakodas with cooking spray to help achieve a crispy texture. This step is optional but highly recommended.
8. Place the basket into the air fryer and cook the pakodas at 180°C (356°F) for 10-12 minutes. Check on them halfway through and gently shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
9. Once the pakodas turn a golden brown color and appear crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoying the Crispy Delights
Now that your onion pakodas are cooked to perfection in the air fryer, it’s time to devour them! Serve them hot with a side of mint chutney or ketchup. The crispy texture and spicy flavor will surely be a hit among your family and friends.
One of the distinct advantages of making onion pakodas in an air fryer is that you will consume considerably less oil compared to deep-frying. Air-frying significantly reduces the calorie content without compromising on taste. This makes it a healthier option for those who are watching their waistlines or looking to cut down on fried foods.
Air fryers are not only useful for making onion pakodas but can also be utilized for various other snacks and dishes. You can experiment with different vegetables like potato, spinach, or eggplant to create an array of crispy delights. The versatility of an air fryer makes it a worthy addition to any kitchen.
In Conclusion
If you’re craving onion pakodas but want to avoid the excess oil, an air fryer is your answer. By following the simple steps mentioned above, you can achieve perfectly crispy and delicious onion pakodas. With an air fryer, you can enjoy your favorite snack guilt-free. So go ahead, indulge in these healthy and delightful onion pakodas made in an air fryer, and savor every crispy bite!