Go Back

Air Fryer Pakora

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4
Air Fryer Pakora, the perfect fusion of tradition and innovation, offers the tantalizing flavors of classic Indian pakoras with a modern twist. Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a besan-based batter infused with aromatic spices. Coat your choice of vegetables with this flavorful batter, lightly grease the air fryer, and arrange the pakoras in a single layer. A touch of cooking oil spray ensures their signature crispiness. Air fry at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking. The result? Golden, crispy delights that are guilt-free, thanks to minimal oil usage. Serve these Air Fryer Pakoras with your favorite chutney or sauce for a delightful snack or appetizer. It's a culinary journey where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition, without the excess calories.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Whisk or Spoon
  • Cooking Oil Spray or Brush
  • Tongs or Fork
  • Plates and Serving Dish
  • Chutney or Sauce Dishes
  • Napkins or Paper Towels

Ingredients

  • For the Pakora Batter:

1 cup besan (gram flour)

    1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

      1 teaspoon cumin powder

        1 teaspoon coriander powder

          1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)

            A pinch of baking soda

              Salt to taste

                Water (for making the batter)

                • For the Pakora Filling (Choose your favorites:)

                1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced

                  2-3 green chilies, finely chopped

                    Your choice of vegetables (e.g., potatoes, spinach leaves, eggplant slices) thinly sliced or chopped

                    • For Air Frying:

                    Cooking oil spray or a brush for lightly greasing the air fryer basket and coating the pakoras

                    • Optional for Serving:

                    Green chutney, tamarind sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce

                      Chopped cilantro or mint leaves for garnish

                        Feel free to customize the choice of vegetables and adjust the spices to your taste preferences. These ingredients will yield a delicious batch of Air Fryer Pakoras with a crispy exterior and flavorful interior.

                          Instructions 

                          Preparation:

                          • Preheat Your Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it's ready to cook your pakoras to crispy perfection.
                            Gather Your Ingredients: Collect all the necessary ingredients, including besan (gram flour), spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder), chopped onions, green chilies, and your choice of vegetables (e.g., potatoes, spinach, or eggplant).
                            Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine besan and the spices. Add a pinch of baking soda for extra crispiness. Gradually add water to the mixture, whisking continuously until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. Aim for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon without dripping. Set the batter aside.

                          Cooking:

                          • Lightly Grease the Air Fryer: To prevent sticking, lightly grease the air fryer basket or tray using cooking oil spray or a brush.
                            Coat the Pakoras: Dip each piece of chopped vegetable into the batter, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing them in the air fryer.
                            Arrange in the Air Fryer: Arrange the coated vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
                            Apply a Thin Coat of Oil: For that extra crispiness, lightly brush or spray a thin coat of cooking oil on the pakoras. This minimal oil usage is one of the key benefits of air frying.
                            Air Fry the Pakoras: Set the air fryer to cook at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the pakoras to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye on them as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of the pakoras.

                          Serving and Enjoyment:

                          • Serve Hot: Once the pakoras turn a beautiful golden brown and become crispy, carefully remove them from the air fryer.
                            Pair with Chutney or Sauce: Air Fryer Pakoras are best enjoyed with green chutney, tamarind sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce. Serve them hot on a plate or a serving dish.
                            Optional Garnish: For a touch of freshness and color, you can garnish your pakoras with chopped cilantro or mint leaves before serving.
                            Enjoy Your Guilt-Free Delight: Savor each bite of these delectable Air Fryer Pakoras, knowing that you've created a healthier version of a beloved Indian snack, free from the excess oil and calories of traditional deep frying.
                          Keyword: Air Fryer Pakora