In the quest for delicious, easy-to-make snacks that cater to all tastes, spicy mushroom pakoras cooked in an air fryer stand out brilliantly. Popular in Indian cuisine for their crispy exterior and flavorful interior, these pakoras are traditionally deep-fried. However, with an air fryer, they can now be enjoyed with less oil and fewer calories, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
- 200g button mushrooms, cleaned and quartered
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 green chilli, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Salt to taste
- Water, as needed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any preferred cooking oil)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, red chilli powder, ground coriander, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, half of the chopped green chilli, ginger-garlic paste, asafoetida, and salt.
- Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to form a smooth, thick batter. The consistency should be able to coat the mushrooms nicely without being too runny.
- Add the quartered mushrooms to the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F).
- Brush the air fryer basket with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper specifically designed for air fryers.
- Place the coated mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Brush or spray the tops with olive oil to aid in crispyness.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The pakoras are ready when they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
The air fryer offers a modern twist on traditional frying, using hot air circulation to achieve a crispy exterior without submerging food in oil. This method reduces the fat content of your dishes significantly, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste and texture. Additionally, air frying cuts down on cooking time and requires less cleanup than traditional frying.
Tips for Perfect Mushroom Pakoras
- Dry the Mushrooms: After washing, ensure the mushrooms are completely dry to avoid making the batter watery.
- Batter Consistency: Keep the batter thick enough to coat the mushrooms well, adjusting with water if necessary.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the level of spices to suit your preference, adding more red chilli powder for heat or omitting it for milder flavours.
- Batch Cooking: Always fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Mushroom pakoras are versatile and can be served in various settings. Enjoy them as a starter or as a delicious tea-time snack. They're especially delightful when paired with mint chutney or tamarind sauce. These pakoras also make an excellent accompaniment to a main meal or can be added to a platter of Indian snacks when entertaining guests.
This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to enjoy the delightful crispness of mushroom pakoras without the need for deep frying. So, the next time you're looking for a crispy, spicy snack, grab your air fryer and enjoy these delicious pakoras guilt-free.