Parathas are a popular and delicious Indian bread that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Traditionally, parathas are made by rolling out dough and cooking them on a tawa (a flat griddle) with generous amounts of oil or ghee. However, with the rise in popularity of air fryers, it is now possible to make crispy and tasty parathas with less oil and effort. In this article, we will provide you with a quick and easy recipe on how to make parathas in an air fryer.
Gather the Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need to make these delectable parathas:
1. 2 cups of whole wheat flour
2. Warm water
3. Salt
4. Oil or ghee for brushing
5. Optional: Spices like turmeric, cumin, or chili powder for flavor variations
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, add the whole wheat flour along with a pinch of salt. You can also add spices at this stage if you want flavored parathas. Gradually add warm water and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. The amount of water required may vary, so add it gradually. Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes. This resting time will allow the gluten to relax and make it easier to roll out the parathas later on.
Step 2: Divide and Shape the Dough
After the dough has rested, divide it into small, equal-sized balls. The size of the dough balls will determine the size of your parathas. You can make them as big or as small as you prefer. Take one dough ball and flatten it with your palm. Dust it with some flour and start rolling it out into a circular shape. The thickness of a paratha can be personal preference, but a medium thickness is recommended for even cooking.
Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer
Now, it’s time to cook the paratha in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes at a temperature of 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, carefully place the rolled-out paratha into the air fryer basket. You can cook multiple parathas at a time, but make sure to leave some space between them for even cooking. Close the air fryer and set the timer for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Flip and Brush with Oil
After the initial cooking time, open the air fryer and flip the parathas using a pair of tongs. You will notice that the parathas have puffed up slightly. Brush the cooked side of the paratha with some oil or ghee. This step will help in achieving the crispy and golden texture that we all love in a paratha. Close the air fryer again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Repeat and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, remove the parathas from the air fryer basket and place them on a plate. Proceed with the same process for the remaining dough balls until all the parathas are cooked. Serve the hot and crispy parathas with your favorite curry, yogurt, or pickle.
Tips for Perfect Parathas
– For a flakier texture, you can add a little oil or ghee while kneading the dough.
– Experiment with different spices and herbs to add unique flavors to your parathas.
– If you prefer softer parathas, you can omit the air fryer step and cook them on a tawa or a non-stick pan instead.
– Make sure to preheat the air fryer before cooking to ensure even and consistent results.
– Feel free to brush the parathas with more oil or ghee after they are cooked for an extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Making parathas in an air fryer is a convenient and healthier alternative to the traditional cooking method. With minimal oil and effort, you can achieve perfectly crispy and delicious parathas that are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, go ahead and give this quick and easy recipe a try. Enjoy the delightful flavors of freshly made parathas with your favorite sides and elevate your mealtime to new heights. Happy cooking!