Airfryer Indian Vegetarian Recipes for Quick Healthy Meals

Indian cuisine is a treasure trove of vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and hearty vegetarian dishes. With the rise of air fryers, cooking Indian vegetarian recipes has become quicker, healthier, and just as delicious.

Using an air fryer not only reduces the oil content but also enhances the natural crunch and texture of these dishes, making them perfect for anyone looking to enjoy traditional Indian flavors without the guilt.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply a fan of Indian food, air fryer recipes bring convenience and taste together in one fantastic package.

In this post, we’ll explore multiple air fryer Indian vegetarian recipes that are easy to prepare, packed with nutrition, and bursting with authentic flavors. From crispy pakoras to flavorful paneer tikka and spiced samosas, these recipes are designed to impress your family and guests alike.

Let’s dive into the world of crispy, mouth-watering Indian vegetarian delights prepared effortlessly in your air fryer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer Indian vegetarian recipes combine the best of tradition and modern convenience. They use significantly less oil compared to traditional deep frying, which means you can enjoy your favorite snacks and dishes guilt-free.

The air fryer ensures even cooking, a wonderful crispy texture, and faster cooking times, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute snacks.

Additionally, these recipes are versatile and customizable. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, tangy or smoky, you can adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste buds.

Plus, they’re packed with protein and fiber, thanks to legumes, paneer, and vegetables, making them wholesome and nutritious.

Ingredients

• Chickpea flour (besan) – 1 cup
• Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 200 grams, cubed
• Potatoes – 2 medium, boiled and diced
• Green peas – 1/2 cup, boiled
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Green chilies – 2, finely chopped
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) – 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Yogurt – 1/4 cup (for marination)
• Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
• Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
• Chat masala – 1 teaspoon
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
• Salt – to taste
• Oil spray – for air fryer use
• Phyllo pastry sheets or store-bought samosa wrappers – 8-10 sheets (optional for samosas)
• Mixed vegetables – 1 cup (carrots, beans, peas), finely chopped (optional)

Equipment

• Air fryer – preferably with a basket and adjustable temperature settings
• Mixing bowls – various sizes
• Whisk or spoon – for mixing batter and marinating
• Knife and chopping board – for vegetable prep
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Brush or oil spray bottle – to lightly grease food before air frying
• Tongs – for flipping and removing food

Instructions

Air Fryer Crispy Pakoras (Vegetable Fritters)

1. Prepare the batter: In a bowl, combine 1 cup chickpea flour, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp cumin seeds, and salt to taste. Add water gradually to form a thick, smooth batter.
2. Mix vegetables: To the batter, add finely chopped onions, green chilies, coriander, boiled potatoes, and mixed vegetables if using. Stir to coat evenly.
3. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
4. Form pakoras: Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter-vegetable mixture onto parchment paper or directly into the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
5. Cook pakoras: Lightly spray the pakoras with oil. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Serve hot: Enjoy with mint chutney or tamarind sauce.

Air Fryer Paneer Tikka

1. Marinate paneer: In a bowl, mix 200 grams paneer cubes with 1/4 cup yogurt, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt, and finely chopped green chilies and coriander.
2. Marinate: Let the paneer marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat air fryer: Set to 190°C (374°F) and preheat for 5 minutes.
4. Arrange paneer: Place marinated paneer cubes on skewers or directly in the basket, ensuring they are spaced out.
5. Cook: Spray lightly with oil and air fry for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through, until edges are golden and slightly charred.
6. Serve: Garnish with chaat masala and fresh coriander. Serve with sliced onions and lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Samosas (Vegetarian Filling)

1. Prepare filling: In a pan, heat 1 teaspoon oil. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, then add finely chopped onions, boiled diced potatoes, green peas, chopped green chilies, and spices (1/2 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp red chili powder, and salt). Cook for 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
2. Assemble samosas: Take phyllo sheets or samosa wrappers. Cut into strips about 3 inches wide. Place a spoonful of filling at one end and fold into triangles, sealing edges with water.
3. Preheat air fryer: Set to 180°C (356°F) and preheat for 5 minutes.
4. Air fry samosas: Lightly brush or spray samosas with oil. Place them in the air fryer basket, not overcrowding. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until golden and crisp, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve: Enjoy with mint chutney or tamarind sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, lightly brush your pakoras and samosas with oil before air frying. This helps achieve that golden-brown texture without deep frying.

Use different vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers in pakoras for a variety of flavors and textures.

Try tofu as a vegan alternative to paneer in the tikka recipe. Press the tofu well and marinate similarly.

Spice level can be adjusted by adding or reducing green chilies and red chili powder to suit your preference.

For a gluten-free option, substitute samosa wrappers with rice paper sheets or make pakoras only.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer Indian vegetarian snacks are perfect as appetizers or party starters. Serve pakoras and samosas with a side of freshly made mint chutney or tamarind sauce to enhance the flavors.

Paneer tikka pairs beautifully with a simple salad of sliced onions, lemon wedges, and fresh coriander. For a wholesome meal, combine these snacks with a bowl of steaming dal and basmati rice or a warm naan bread.

If you’re interested in exploring more recipes that bring exciting flavors and easy preparation, check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe, or for a delicious meaty twist, see the Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe.

For something unique and flavorful, try the Bluebill Duck Recipes.

Conclusion

Air fryer Indian vegetarian recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy the rich, diverse flavors of Indian cuisine without compromising on health or convenience. These recipes are not only easy to make but also reduce the need for excess oil, making your favorite snacks lighter and more nutritious.

Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply craving a tasty snack, the air fryer is an indispensable kitchen tool that can transform traditional recipes into healthier versions.

Embracing these recipes can spark creativity in your cooking, encouraging you to experiment with various spices, vegetables, and preparation methods. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these dishes prove that healthy eating and indulgence can coexist beautifully.

So grab your air fryer and start making these delicious Indian vegetarian treats today – your taste buds and body will thank you!

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