Air-Frying Indian Food: A Tasty, Healthy Twist

Indian food is known for its bold flavours and vibrant colours, but it often gets a bad reputation for being greasy and unhealthy. However, with an air fryer, you can enjoy your favourite Indian delicacies more frequently with less guilt and grease! Air fryers are a fantastic alternative to traditional frying methods, as they use hot air circulation to cook food, requiring little to no oil. This makes them ideal for preparing a variety of Indian dishes, from vegetarian snacks to non-vegetarian starters, and even desserts.

How to make vegetarian Indian food in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to make healthier versions of your favourite Indian dishes without compromising on taste or texture. They're perfect for cooking vegetarian Indian food, as they require little to no oil and can be used to air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate and reheat foods. Here are some tips and recipes to get you started:

Choosing an Air Fryer

When choosing an air fryer, consider the number of people you will be cooking for and the types of recipes you want to make. The Cosori Air Fryer, for example, is budget-friendly and ideal for cooking for a family of four. It has a square basket, which provides more surface area than a circular basket and is useful for recipes that need to be cooked in a single layer, such as chicken tikka kebabs.

For larger groups, the Cuisinart Convection Toaster Oven Air Fryer is a good option, as it can cook an entire 12-inch pizza.

Recipes

Tandoori Paneer Tikka

A popular Indian appetizer, Tandoori Paneer Tikka is made by marinating cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in yoghurt and tandoori spices, then skewering and air frying until charred and tender.

Aloo Gobi

A well-loved North Indian side dish, Aloo Gobi is a combination of cauliflower and potatoes tossed in spices and roasted in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Pakoras

Pakoras are a classic Indian snack. To make them in an air fryer, slice onions and coat them in a batter made from gram flour (besan) and spices. Air fry until crispy and golden.

Sabudana Vada

A traditional Maharashtrian snack, Sabudana Vada are crispy fritters made from tapioca pearls (saboona), potatoes, peanuts, herbs and spices.

Spicy Bombay Potatoes

These baby potatoes are coated in a variety of Indian spices and cooked in the air fryer until golden and crispy. They make a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Curry

This vegetarian dish combines Indian spices with cauliflower and is cooked in a single pot for a flavourful curry punch.

Air Fryer Kurkuri Bhindi

Also known as crispy fried okra, this dish is made by coating sliced okra in spices and chickpea flour, then air frying until crispy.

Air Fryer Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

A fusion dish, this pizza uses naan as its base and is topped with marinated paneer, red peppers, onions and tomatoes.

Air Fryer Paruppu Vadai/Chana Dal Fritter

A well-known South Indian snack, Paruppu Vadai are lentil fritters that become incredibly crispy when cooked in an air fryer.

Air Fryer Indian Bread Roll

A delicious snack, these bread rolls are made with a spicy potato filling and cooked in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Funfetti Nankhatai (Indian Funfetti Cookies)

A sweet treat, these cookies are cooked to perfection in the air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

Tips

• Air fryers can cook food with up to 70% less oil than traditional frying methods.
• Foods with high water content, such as whole broccoli or leafy greens, may not cook well in an air fryer.
• For best results, ensure food is dry before air frying and avoid using too much oil.
• Suitable oils for air frying include olive oil, avocado oil, grape seed oil, peanut oil, coconut oil and ghee.
• You can use aluminium foil in an air fryer without any risk of sparks.

How to make chicken dishes in an air fryer

Ingredients

The ingredients you will need depend on the specific dish you are making. However, for most chicken dishes, you will need boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders, olive oil, and spices/seasonings of your choice.

Preparation

Before cooking, lightly pound the chicken on a cutting board to ensure an even thickness. You can then season the chicken with salt and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking

Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and rub with olive oil to coat. In a small bowl, combine your choice of spices and rub them generously on the chicken.

Cook at 360-375°F for 9 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for an additional 9-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips

• For juicy and tender chicken, try marinating or brining the chicken before cooking.
• To ensure even cooking, create space between the chicken pieces and do not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Check the temperature of the chicken early to avoid overcooking.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to reabsorb.
• Mix up the spices depending on your menu. You can use Mexican spices, BBQ spices, Indian spices, or any other combination of flavours.

Specific Indian Chicken Dishes

• Tandoori Chicken Wings: Chicken wings marinated in Indian spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection.
• Chicken 65: A fried chicken appetizer with bold flavours, a fiery spice level, and a crispy texture.
• Chicken Tikka Kebab: Chicken pieces marinated in yogurt, lime juice, and spices, then threaded onto skewers and cooked.
• Chilli Chicken: Boneless chicken marinated in Chinese sauces, fried until crispy, and stir-fried with ginger, garlic, onions, bell peppers, and sauces.
• Tandoori Chicken: Chicken marinated in yogurt, ginger, garlic, spices, and lemon juice, then grilled in the air fryer.

Other Tips for Air Frying Chicken

• If you are using frozen chicken, you can put it directly into the air fryer without thawing. Drizzle with olive oil, season as desired, and air fry at 360°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping once.
• To reheat chicken, use the oven instead of the air fryer to avoid overcooking. Reheat at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

How to make fish dishes in an air fryer

An air fryer is a great way to cook fish, achieving a crispy exterior without the grease of a deep fryer. It's a healthier, quicker, and easier way to cook fish, with less oil and mess.

• Thaw and Prepare the Fish: Start by thawing frozen fish in the fridge overnight or on the counter for an hour in ice-cold water. Pat the fish dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Bread the Fish: Set up three shallow bowls with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Dip the fish in flour, then egg, and finally, breadcrumbs. For extra flavour, add spices like onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder to the breadcrumbs.
• Chill the Breaded Fish: Place the breaded fish on a parchment-lined sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This helps the breading adhere to the fish. If you see wet spots, sprinkle a pinch of breadcrumbs and pat gently.
• Cook the Fish: Place the fish in the air fryer basket in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can create steam and affect crispness. Spray the fish and basket with cooking spray or oil, and cook at 380-400°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Tips:

• Fish Types: This method works well with firm, mild white fish like cod, pollock, haddock, and tilapia. Avoid thicker fish like tuna or swordfish, which take longer to cook.
• No Sticking: Most air fryers have a non-stick coating, but you can also line the basket with air fryer-friendly parchment paper for extra protection.
• Creative Seasoning: Experiment with different seasonings like Cajun, jerk, or za'atar.
• Serving Ideas: Serve the fish with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, fries, coleslaw, or Greek lemon potatoes. You can also use it in fish tacos or bowls.

Variations:

• Low-Carb: Substitute almond flour for regular flour and crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and crushed corn flakes for a gluten-free alternative.

Enjoy your air-fried fish, crispy and flaky without the guilt!

How to make Indian street food in an air fryer

Indian street food is famous for its flavour, but it can be high in calories due to deep frying. However, an air fryer can help you enjoy these treats more frequently with less guilt and grease! Here are some ways to make Indian street food in an air fryer:

Aloo Tikki

Aloo Tikki is a popular Indian street food snack made with boiled potatoes and spices. It is usually deep-fried or shallow-fried, but the air fryer lightens it up. You can serve it with coriander mint chutney or as part of an Indian chaat.

Samosas

Samosas are one of the most popular Indian snacks, but they can be high in fat. You can make a healthier version by air frying them instead of deep frying. You can also try a fusion version, Samosas Jalapeno Poppers, which has a spicy potato and peas filling.

Pakoras

Pakoras are another classic Indian snack that can be made in the air fryer. You can make onion pakoras, vegetable pakoras, or chicken pakoras.

Bread Rolls

Bread rolls are a common Indian street snack that is typically deep-fried. You can make a healthier version by air frying them instead.

Vada Pav

Vada Pav is a popular street food in Mumbai, but the vada is usually deep-fried. You can skip the deep frying and make a healthier version by air frying the vada.

Spicy Bombay Potatoes

Baby potatoes coated in Indian spices make for a delicious appetizer. You can air fry these potatoes for a healthier option.

Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori chicken is a grilled chicken dish loved by all. Making it in an air fryer cooks it faster while keeping it moist inside and browned outside.

Okra/Bhindi

Okra, or bhindi, is a popular vegetable in India. You can make crispy bhindi in the air fryer by tossing it in spices and chickpea flour and then air frying it. Another option is Bharwa Bhindi, where the okra is stuffed with a spicy and tangy masala filling.

Plantain Chips

Plantain chips are a perfect Indian snack that can be made in the air fryer. Just cut the plantains, wash them, and air fry them for a healthier version.

Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a savoury party snack that can be made in the air fryer. It's easier and less messy than traditional frying.

Masala Peanuts

Masala peanuts are one of the most popular Indian snacks. You can make them in the air fryer with a spicy gram flour coating.

How to make Indian-style bread in an air fryer

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for coating

Method

• Combine the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder) in a large bowl.
• Gradually add the warm water and olive oil (if using) to the dry mixture and mix until a dough forms.
• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth.
• Shape the dough into a round loaf or roll. For a rustic look, score the top of the dough with a knife to create a pattern.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
• Place the shaped dough in the air fryer basket. You can add as many pieces as the basket can accommodate, but be sure to leave some space around each one.
• Cook at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• Remove the bread from the air fryer and allow it to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• Try adding herbs, spices, or cheese to your dough for extra flavour.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Keep an eye on the bread while it's cooking, as air fryers can vary in efficiency.
• For a healthier option, use an air fryer instead of deep-frying the bread.

Frequently asked questions