Crispy Onion Pakodas (Air Fryer, Baked or Fried)

Ingredients

• 1 large red onion
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1/4 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1 tablespoon rice flour
• 1/2 teaspoon green chili (minced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic (grated)
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon carom seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 tablespoon oil (heated )
• oil spray

Instructions

1. 1

   Cut the onion in half and peel the skin and outer thin layer off. Then thinly slice each half of the onion.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl add onion, cilantro and salt. Massage with your hands or using a silicone spatula to help release the moisture. Add gram flour, rice flour, green chili, garlic, red chili powder, turmeric, and carom seeds. Mix well to form a thick mixture. Add hot oil and give a quick mix.

3. 3

   --- Air Frying ---

4. 4

   Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.

5. 5

   Divide the mix into 9 equal parts and then pick up each part and press down with your fingers to form a small patty (about ½ inch thick and 2-½ inches wide).

6. 6

   Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the Pakodas in the air fryer basket keeping some space between each one for airflow. Lightly spary oil on top.

7. 7

   Air fry at 350 F for 10 mins. Open the air fryer and carefully flip them over. Lightly spray oil on top and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until they become golden brown with crispy edges. Enjoy hot with green chutney or ketchup.

8. 8

   --- Deep Frying ---

9. 9

   This is the traditional method and makes the crispiest, most indulgent pakodas with a light, airy interior. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Drop small portions of the batter using a spoon or your fingers and fry in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until deeply golden and crisp.

10. 10

    Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

11. 11

    --- Oven Baked ---

12. 12

    Baking gives you a lighter pakoda that is still satisfying and crispy on the edges. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.

13. 13

    Shape the pakoda mixture into small patties and place them with space between each one. Spray the tops generously with oil and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.