Frying Duros In An Air Fryer: A Quick, Crunchy Treat

Duros, also known as chicharrones de harina, are a popular Mexican snack. They are typically deep-fried, but with the increasing popularity of air fryers, many people are wondering if it is possible to make them in this appliance. The answer is yes! Air frying duros is a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it uses little to no oil, while still achieving a similar texture and flavour. This introduction sets the tone for the rest of the article, which will provide a comprehensive guide on how to make delicious and crispy duros in an air fryer.

Ingredients and preparation

Duros, or "chicharrones de harina", are a popular Mexican snack. They are made from wheat flour and typically served with various dips or toppings. While they are traditionally deep-fried, using an air fryer presents a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavour or texture.

Ingredients

To make duros in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of wheat flour
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt (some recipes suggest 1 teaspoon)
• 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
• Water (as needed to make the dough)
• Cooking spray (optional, for added crispness)

You can also add 1 teaspoon of chilli powder for extra flavour, and experiment with various seasonings and dips to elevate the flavour.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine the wheat flour, salt, and baking powder in a mixing bowl. Gradually add water until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pliable. Avoid making it too sticky; if it adheres to your hands, add a little more flour. You can also add chilli powder or other seasonings at this stage for extra flavour. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes elastic.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough

Divide the dough into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. On a floured surface, roll each ball out into thin circles. The thinner you roll them, the crispier the final product will be. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the circles into small squares, rectangles, or diamond shapes.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to between 375°F and 400°F (or about 190°C-200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and add extra crispness.

Step 4: Cook the Duros

Place the cut dough pieces into the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. This allows them to cook evenly and crisp up properly. Air fry the duros for about 5-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them as cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Once the duros are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool. This is where you can get creative with flavours. Toss your duros in spices like cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or cheese powder, or serve them with dips such as guacamole, salsa, or cheese sauce.

Tips and Variations

• You can make duros without any oil, but a light brush or spray of oil may enhance the flavour and crispness.
• Every air fryer cooks slightly differently, so be prepared to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with seasonings! Adding ingredients like smoked paprika, taco seasoning, or shredded cheese before air frying can yield delicious results.
• Duros can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of dips and toppings, such as cinnamon sugar, cocoa powder, salsa, guacamole, or chocolate sauce.
• If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay crispy for about 3-4 days. To revive their crispiness, put them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 2-3 minutes.

Air fryer settings

Air fryers are a great alternative to deep-frying, as they use hot air to cook food, resulting in a similar texture to deep-fried food but with less oil. Here are some tips and settings to consider when using an air fryer:

Preheating

Some air fryer models have a preheat light that indicates when the unit has reached the desired temperature. Most air fryer instruction manuals recommend preheating the air fryer before placing food inside. Preheating can help food cook more evenly and promote browning. However, it is not always necessary, and you can experiment with both methods to see which gives better results for the specific food you are cooking.

Temperature Settings

When determining the temperature for your air fryer, a good rule of thumb is to set it 25°F (a few degrees Celsius) lower than you would for a conventional oven. Air fryers heat up quickly and circulate hot air, so a slightly lower temperature will help prevent the food from burning or becoming too crispy on the outside while still cooking properly on the inside. Always refer to your air fryer manual for recommended temperatures for different types of food.

Cooking Time

Air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Most air fryers have preset programs with recommended cooking times and temperatures for common foods. However, you can also use the manual air fry function to set the cooking time and temperature yourself. Keep in mind that every air fryer cooks slightly differently, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on your specific model.

Food Arrangement

For optimal results, arrange food in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and promote crispiness. If necessary, cook the food in batches to avoid overcrowding. Shaking or flipping the food halfway through the cooking process can also help ensure even cooking and browning.

Oil Usage

Air fryers require little to no oil, but a light coating of oil can enhance the flavour and crispness of certain foods, especially vegetables. Use a light hand with oil, as excess oil can end up in the drawer under the grate. Avoid using cooking spray on the basket, as it can damage the non-stick coating over time. Instead, toss your food in oil or rub it down with an oil-saturated paper towel.

Safety Precautions

Always cook in a well-ventilated area, leaving ample space around the air fryer for proper exhaust ventilation. Do not place it close to a wall. Be mindful of the smoke point of the fat or oil you are cooking with, especially when cooking foods like bacon. Cook these foods at a temperature lower than the smoke point of the fat to prevent smoking or burning. Protect your hands and countertops from the hot air fryer basket after use, and always unplug the air fryer when it is not in use.

Shaping the duros

Firstly, after preparing the dough by mixing the dry ingredients and kneading it with water, let the dough rest for about 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the gluten in the dough to relax, resulting in a more tender and elastic texture. Once the dough has rested, you can begin shaping it.

To shape the duros, start by lightly flouring your work surface. This will prevent the dough from sticking as you roll it out. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. If you have a tortilla press, you can also use that to achieve the desired thickness. The key is to get the dough thin enough so that it crisps up nicely in the air fryer.

Once the dough is rolled out, it's time to cut it into the signature wheel shape. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, carefully cut the dough into small squares or rectangles, approximately 1-2 inches in size. You can also get creative with other shapes, such as circles or triangles, but the traditional wheel shape is the most iconic for duros.

If you want to be extra fancy, you can even use a small cookie cutter to create perfectly shaped duros. This will give them a more uniform appearance, but it's not necessary if you don't have one. Remember, part of the charm of homemade snacks is their rustic, imperfect look!

After cutting the dough, you might be tempted to start frying right away. However, it's important to let the cut dough rest for a few minutes. This will prevent the shapes from shrinking or losing their structure during frying. It also ensures that the air fryer is preheated to the optimal temperature, usually between 375°F and 400°F, for the best results.

Finally, once your air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the cut duros into the basket in a single layer, making sure they have some space between them for even cooking. You might need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

And that's it! You're now ready to air fry your perfectly shaped duros. By following these steps, you'll achieve crispy, delicious duros with that signature wheel shape that makes them so recognisable. Enjoy experimenting with this fun and healthier way to make a traditional Mexican treat!

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for frying duros in an air fryer can vary depending on the specific model and desired level of crispiness. However, here is a comprehensive guide to help you achieve the perfect results:

Preheating the Air Fryer:

It is essential to preheat your air fryer before adding the duros. Set the temperature between 375°F and 400°F (or about 190°C to 200°C) and preheat for about 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your duros cook evenly and achieve the desired crispy texture.

Cooking Time and Temperature:

Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to add the duros. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have some space between them for even cooking. Depending on the source, the cooking time can range from 2 minutes to 12 minutes.

For example, one source recommends cooking duros at 390°F for 2 minutes, while another suggests a temperature of 400°F for about 5 to 6 minutes. It is important to note that cooking times may vary, so it is advisable to keep a close eye on your duros during the cooking process.

Flipping and Monitoring:

To ensure even cooking and browning, it is recommended to flip or shake the duros halfway through the cooking time. This helps achieve a consistent texture and color on both sides. Keep a close eye on them, especially during the last few minutes, as air fryers can vary in heat intensity.

Adjusting Cooking Time:

Every air fryer model is unique, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you notice that your duros are browning too quickly, lower the temperature and extend the cooking time. Conversely, if they need more color or crispiness, you can increase the temperature or cook them for a slightly longer period.

Batch Cooking:

If you have a large quantity of duros, consider cooking them in batches. This prevents overcrowding in the air fryer basket, which can lead to uneven cooking. Batch cooking also allows you to experiment with different cooking times to find the ideal level of crispiness that suits your taste.

Reviving Crispiness:

If you have leftover duros that have lost their crispiness, you can easily revive them in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and place the duros inside for 2 to 3 minutes. This quick blast of hot air will restore their crunchy texture.

Seasoning and serving suggestions

Duros are a versatile snack, and there are endless possibilities for seasoning and serving them. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Spicy options:

If you like your snacks with a kick, consider tossing your freshly air-fried duros in cayenne pepper, chili powder, or paprika. These spices will add a nice spicy punch to your duros. You can also sprinkle some chili powder on your guacamole or salsa for an extra spicy kick. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with smoked paprika or taco seasoning before air frying your duros. These seasonings will infuse your duros with mouthwatering flavours.

Cheesy delights:

For cheese lovers, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or shredded cheese can take your duros to the next level. Alternatively, you can toss your duros in cheese powder for a unique, cheesy twist. If you're feeling indulgent, serve your duros with a creamy cheese sauce for dipping.

Savoury sensations:

Garlic powder adds depth of flavour to your duros, while onion powder contributes a subtle savoury note. Ranch seasoning is another excellent option for those who want to explore different savoury flavours.

Sweet treats:

For those with a sweet tooth, cinnamon sugar can transform your duros into a delightful dessert option. Simply sprinkle it on your freshly cooked duros, or mix it with cocoa powder for an extra indulgent twist. Alternatively, you can serve your duros with chocolate sauce or fruit dips for a sweet and satisfying snack.

Dips and toppings:

Duros are commonly served with dips such as guacamole, salsa, or queso dip. These dips enhance the flavour and complement the crunch of the duros perfectly. You can also get creative with your toppings, such as shredded cheese, cucumber, jicama, or cacahuates japoneses. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your favourite pairing.

Healthy options:

If you're looking for a healthier option, you can enjoy your duros plain or with a refreshing dip like salsa verde or a tangy and zesty dip. You can also pair them with a refreshing drink, such as Chia Agua de Pepino or Agua de Sandia, for a hydrating and healthy snack break.

Frequently asked questions