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Crispy Onion Pakodas: Easy Snack! Onion pakodas: Craft these incredibly crispy Indian fritters using your air fryer. A healthier take on a classic, perfect for

Crispy Onion Pakodas: Easy Snack!

Onion pakodas: Craft these incredibly crispy Indian fritters using your air fryer. A healthier take on a classic, perfect for a spicy snack or appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large red onion
  • ½ cup cilantro
  • ¼ cup gram flour (besan)
  • 1 tablespoon rice flour
  • ½ teaspoon green chili (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic (grated)
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon carom seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Method
 

  1. Thinly slice the peeled red onion halves.
  2. In a bowl, combine onion, cilantro, and salt. Massage to release moisture. Add gram flour, rice flour, green chili, garlic, red chili powder, turmeric, and carom seeds. Mix well to form a thick mixture.
  3. For air frying, preheat to 400°F. Form 9 patties (½ inch thick, 2-½ inches wide). Lightly spray the basket and pakodas with oil.
  4. Air fry at 350°F for 10 minutes, then flip, spray with oil, and cook for an additional 2 minutes until golden and crispy.
  5. For deep frying, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry small portions for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Notes

- The secret to crispy pakodas is extracting moisture from the onions. Don't skip massaging the onions with salt; it makes a huge difference.
- Ensure your air fryer or oil is at the correct temperature (350-400°F or 175-200°C). Too low, and they'll be greasy; too high, and they'll burn outside before cooking inside.
- Storage: Leftover pakodas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
- Spice Variation: Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder to your preferred spice level. For a milder version, reduce or omit the green chili.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.