No-Oil Air-Fried Paneer Pakoda

Enjoy a healthier twist on the classic Indian snack with these crispy paneer pakoras made without a drop of oil! Perfect for tea-time or as a guilt-free appetizer.

Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: servings
• Course: Snack/Appetizer
• Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

• 200g paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 2 tbsp rice flour
• 1 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• Oil spray (for greasing)

Premium Paneer

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Organic Besan

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Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Air fryer
• Cooking spray
• Spatula

Air Fryer

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Instructions

1. Marinate Paneer: In a bowl, combine paneer cubes, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare Batter: In another bowl, mix gram flour, rice flour, carom seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, ginger-garlic paste, and baking soda. Gradually add water to form a smooth, thick batter.
3. Coat Paneer: Dip each marinated paneer cube into the batter, ensuring it's well-coated.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 5 minutes.
5. Arrange Pakoras: Place the coated paneer cubes in the air fryer basket lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other.
6. Air Fry: Lightly spray the pakoras with oil. Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
7. Serve: Once golden and crispy, remove from the air fryer and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with mint chutney or ketchup.

Tips and Tricks

• Ensure the batter is thick enough to coat the paneer properly.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
• For extra crispiness, add a tablespoon of semolina (sooji) to the batter.
• Adjust spices according to your taste preference.

Storage Information

These pakoras are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use fresh paneer for the best texture and taste.
• You can add finely chopped onions or spinach to the batter for variation.
• Serve with green chutney or tamarind sauce for enhanced flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Calcium: 200mg
• Iron: 1.5mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Enjoy these delicious and healthy no-oil air-fried paneer pakoras as a perfect snack or appetizer. They're crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free!