There's nothing like a tray of crispy, golden brown bhajis to whet the appetite. For those unfamiliar, bhajis are a classic Indian snack often made with onions, deep-fried to create a delectable treat. However, today we're going to put a healthy spin on the traditional recipe by incorporating cabbage and air frying them to crispy perfection.
Why Choose Air Frying?
Air frying has soared in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. Not only does it use significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, but it also offers a healthier alternative while still providing that sought-after crispy texture. Moreover, air fryers are easy to use and clean, making them a perfect addition to any kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 cup of shredded cabbage
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 1 cup of gram flour (besan)
- 1 tsp of ground cumin
- 1 tsp of coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp of red chili powder
- 1 tbsp of chopped coriander leaves
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Cooking spray or a light brush of vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage and thinly sliced onion. Mix them together using your hands, gently squeezing to allow the juices to release. This step is crucial as it will help in binding when you add the flour.
Step 2: Create the Bhaji Mixture
Add gram flour, ground cumin, coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt to the bowl with cabbage and onions. Add the chopped coriander leaves. Slowly add water a little at a time, mixing by hand until the mixture sticks together but is not overly wet.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (approximately 356°F). Preheating is important as it ensures even cooking and the crispiest results.
Step 4: Shape and Cook the Bhajis
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into patties or small balls. Place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Lightly spray each bhaji with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of vegetable oil.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook the bhajis in the air fryer for about 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure crispness on all sides. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as air fryers can have slightly different heat settings.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, serve the crispy cabbage and onion bhajis hot with a side of mint chutney or tamarind sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a simple yogurt dip, sprinkled with a bit of chaat masala for added flavour.
Tips for Best Results
- Dry Ingredients: Ensure all the dry spices are fresh for maximum flavour.
- Consistency: The mixture should be sticky enough to bind, but not watery. Adjust flour or water as needed.
- Batch Cooking: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
Adopting air frying into your cooking repertory not only transforms traditional recipes into healthier versions but also adds a contemporary touch that suits our fast-paced lifestyles. These cabbage and onion bhajis encapsulate a perfect balance of taste, health, and convenience. Whether you're making these for a tea-time treat or as appetisers for a dinner party, they promise to impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary adventure and happy cooking!