snacks & starters

By genfom.com

Crispy Air-Fried Cheese Bites

Crispy Air-Fried Onion Bhaji is a healthier twist on the traditional Indian snack. Made with thinly sliced onions coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter and air-fried to golden perfection, these bhajis are crunchy, flavorful, and light. They are an excellent appetizer or teatime snack, perfect for serving with chutney or dipping sauces. Using an air fryer cuts down on oil without compromising the deliciously crisp texture that makes onion bhaji a favorite.


Ingredients

  • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
  • 1/4 cup rice flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • Salt, to taste
  • Water, as needed (about 1/4 cup)
  • Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onion Mixture:
    Place the thinly sliced onions in a large bowl. Add salt and let them sit for 5 minutes to release moisture.
  2. Make the Batter:
    To the onions, add chickpea flour, rice flour (if using), turmeric, cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala, chili powder, and cilantro. Mix well. Add water a little at a time until the batter coats the onions without being too runny.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
  4. Form and Air Fry the Bhajis:
    Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. Using your hands or a spoon, drop small portions of the onion mixture into the basket, spreading them out slightly. Don’t overcrowd the basket.
  5. Cook:
    Air fry the bhajis at 360°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray lightly with cooking spray halfway for extra crispiness.
  6. Serve:
    Remove the bhajis from the air fryer and serve hot with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup.

Time

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 22-25 minutes

Serves

  • Makes 4 servings.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Sugar: 3g
  • Fat: 3g
    • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Key Notes

  • Spice Levels: Adjust the chili powder and garam masala to suit your preferred spice level.
  • Crispiness: Rice flour helps enhance the crispiness, but you can omit it if unavailable.
  • Oil Usage: Using an air fryer reduces oil significantly, but you can brush the bhajis lightly with oil for a more traditional texture.
  • Storage: Bhajis are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide variety of dietary preferences.

Crispy Air-Fried Onion Bhaji is a guilt-free way to enjoy this beloved snack without compromising on flavor or texture. Perfect for a rainy day or any time you crave a crispy, spiced treat!

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