Air-Fried Pakora: A Healthy, Guilt-Free Snack Option

Pakoras are a popular Indian and Pakistani snack, usually deep-fried. They are made with chickpea flour and vegetables, and there are many variations, including potato fritters, spinach pakoras, and onion pakoras. However, deep-frying pakoras can be unhealthy due to the large amount of oil used. Air frying is a healthier alternative that uses less oil and creates a similar crispy and crunchy texture. This article will explore the benefits of making pakoras in an air fryer and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make them.

Pakora batter consistency

The consistency of the pakora batter is crucial to achieving the desired crispiness of the fritters. The batter should be thick and not too runny. This is because the vegetables will release moisture as they sit in the batter and during frying, which can make the pakoras soggy if the batter is too thin. The ideal batter will have just enough moisture to bind the ingredients together and create a clumpy dough.

When mixing the batter, add water slowly and in small amounts. The amount of water required may vary depending on the brand of flour used and the climate, but the end goal is to achieve a thick, almost-runny batter with a consistency similar to heavy whipping cream or double cream. You should be able to see some air bubbles on the surface of the batter.

It is also important to note that the batter may need to be adjusted depending on the type of vegetables used. For example, if using potatoes or sweet potatoes, they should be pre-cooked or finely sliced/diced to ensure they cook through properly. On the other hand, if using leafy greens like spinach, whole leaves can be dipped in the batter and fried.

Additionally, the batter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until needed. However, it is important to add the baking soda just before frying, as this will ensure the pakoras remain crispy.

Air fryer temperature

Air fryer pakoras are a healthier alternative to the traditional Indian and Pakistani snack, which is usually deep-fried. The air fryer option uses much less oil and is therefore a lighter, healthier option.

The temperature you should set your air fryer to will depend on the type of pakora you are making, and the quantity of ingredients.

For example, if you are making pakoras with a cauliflower and potato base, you should preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). You should then cook your pakoras for 8 minutes, before flipping them and cooking for another 8 minutes.

If you are making onion pakoras, you should preheat your air fryer to 400°F. You should then cook your pakoras for 12-14 minutes, flipping them after 9 minutes.

If you are making a larger batch of onion pakoras, you may want to bake them in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Health benefits

Air-fried pakora is a healthier alternative to deep-fried pakora. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy and crunchy texture with a lot less oil. This reduces the calorie count and makes it a guilt-free snack.

• Reduced Calorie Intake: Air-fried pakoras have all the flavours of regular pakoras but with a fraction of the calories. This is because air fryers require minimal oil compared to deep frying, resulting in a lighter and healthier snack.
• No Oil Wastage: Deep frying pakoras can lead to oil wastage as a significant amount of oil is required. With an air fryer, you only need a small amount of oil, and there is no mess or hassle of storing leftover oil.
• Mess-Free: Deep frying pakoras can create a lot of mess due to oil splatter. Air fryers eliminate this issue, making the cooking process cleaner and more convenient.
• Safety: A pan of hot oil on the stove can be dangerous, especially with children around. Air fryers reduce the risk of burns and fires, making them a safer option.
• Easy to Make: Air fryers are simple to use and allow you to set the temperature and timer, eliminating the need for constant monitoring.
• Versatile: You can make various types of pakoras in an air fryer, such as onion pakoras, spinach pakoras, potato pakoras, and more.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan: Air-fried pakoras are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them suitable for various dietary preferences and restrictions.

By air frying pakoras, you can enjoy a healthier version of this traditional Indian and Pakistani snack without compromising on taste and texture. It is a great way to indulge in your favourite treat more frequently without the guilt of consuming excess oil.

Safety

• Read the manual: The manual that comes with your air fryer contains valuable safety information and guidelines on how to use the appliance properly. It may also include contact details for the manufacturer, in case you need further help or advice.
• Unplug when not in use: Always unplug your air fryer when you are not using it. This is a safe habit to get into as you never know if a button has been accidentally pressed.
• Avoid burns: Internal and external components of the air fryer get extremely hot during cooking. Use silicone gloves or oven mitts to protect your hands, and a silicone trivet or heat-safe board/mat to place the hot basket and lid on.
• Ventilation: Place your air fryer near vent hoods and ensure these are turned on when the appliance is in use. Pull the air fryer away from the wall and open windows if necessary. Ensure the hot air ventilation openings are not blowing into electrical outlets, and leave space around the air fryer for the vent to circulate.
• Location: Do not put the air fryer on the stove, as you may accidentally turn on the stove and melt your air fryer, or cause a fire. Keep the air fryer on a flat, stable, heat-resistant surface, such as a kitchen worktop, and ensure it is not placed near flammable materials or surfaces prone to heat damage.
• No liquids: Do not pour any liquids, including water or oil, directly into the air fryer. This can cause unexpected explosions, scalding, fire hazards, and damage to the internal components. Instead, use a spray bottle or brush to apply oil to your food.
• Food preparation: Avoid using wet batters or wet coatings in your air fryer, as these will splatter everywhere due to the circulating fan. Use a bread crumb crust by dredging food in flour, raw beaten egg, and then breadcrumbs, and spray liberally with oil so that they are weighed down and do not fly around.
• Do not overfill: Do not overfill the air fryer basket, as this will cause uneven cooking and increase the risk of food poisoning. Keep food in a single layer during cooking.
• Monitor the food: Not all air fryers cook the same, so keep an eye on your food to ensure it doesn't burn. Use a timer to remind yourself to flip, shake, or check on the food.
• Seasoning: Do not season food with salt while it is in the air fryer, as this can break down the lining of the basket. Season the food beforehand in a separate bowl, or after cooking.
• Accessories: Use accessories and inserts made specifically for your air fryer to maximise cooking space.
• Cleaning: Do not clean the racks or basket with harsh metal scouring pads. Instead, soak them in hot soapy water for around 20 minutes, then wipe off any crusted food. Always clean your air fryer after each use, but wait at least 30 minutes for it to cool down first.
• Power source: Plug your air fryer directly into a power socket and avoid using extension cords, as these can cause faults in the appliance.
• Food safety: Ensure your food is cooked to the right temperature to reduce the risk of food poisoning. Use a probe thermometer to check the core temperature of your food.

Reheating instructions

If you have any leftover pakoras, you can reheat them in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F and reheat for 12 to 15 minutes. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or in the microwave for a few seconds (although they won't be crispy).

If you're reheating frozen pakoras, cook them in the air fryer at 355°F for 10 minutes, then at 325°F for 4 minutes. You can also cook them in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

Frequently asked questions