Here's a simple recipe to make Moong Dal Pakoda in an air fryer – crispy outside, soft inside, and much healthier than deep-fried:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow moong dal (soaked for 3-4 hours)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- A pinch of hing (asafoetida)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda (optional, for fluffiness)
- 1 tsp oil (for brushing or mixing)
Instructions:
-
Blend the Dal:
- Drain soaked moong dal and grind it coarsely (not smooth) without adding water or with just 1–2 tsp if needed.
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Make the Batter:
- Transfer the paste to a bowl.
- Add chopped onion, green chilies, ginger, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, salt, hing, and baking soda.
- Mix well. Beat the batter for 2–3 minutes to make it fluffy.
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Shape the Pakoras:
- Preheat the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly grease your hands or a spoon, scoop small portions of the batter, and shape them into rough balls or drops.
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Air Fry:
- Lightly brush or spray the pakoras with oil.
- Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
- Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing again with oil if needed, until golden brown and crispy.
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, spray lightly with oil again in the last 2 minutes.
- Serve hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce