Gobi Manchurian Air Fryer
Gobi Manchurian made in an air fryer is not just easy but yields a dish that’s crispy on the outside with tender cauliflower inside.
Gobi Manchurian, a beloved Indo-Chinese dish, combines the warmth of Indian spices with the umami-rich flavors of Chinese cuisine, making it a favorite among many. Its specialty lies in the crispy, fried cauliflower florets coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce.
Opting for an air fryer version introduces a crispy alternative to traditional frying methods, cutting down on oil without compromising on taste. Using an air fryer not only makes this dish healthier but also maintains its delightful crunch. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy their favorite flavors in a lighter, yet equally satisfying, form.
Why You’ll Choose Gobi Manchurian Air Fryer
Cooking Gobi Manchurian in an air fryer isn’t just convenient; it produces a dish boasting crispy exteriors and tender cauliflower inside. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Cooking time: Reduced significantly compared to traditional frying.
- Nutritional benefits: Lower in fat and calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Ideal for air frying: Cauliflower florets become perfectly crispy.
- Standard: Maintains the authentic taste and texture.
- Compatibility: Air frying enhances the dish’s appeal by keeping it less oily.
Gobi Manchurian Air Fryer
Gobi Manchurian made in an air fryer is not just easy but yields a dish that’s crispy on the outside with tender cauliflower inside.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup water (adjust as needed to form a batter)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
- Spring onions, for garnish
Substitutions:
- Gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour
Tamari for soy sauce to make it gluten-free
Instructions
1. Preparation of Cauliflower:
- Wash the cauliflower florets and pat them dry.
- In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter is formed.
2. Coating the Cauliflower:
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Shake off the excess batter before placing the florets in the air fryer basket.
3. Air Frying:
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Arrange the battered florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even air circulation.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the florets are golden and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
4. Preparing the Sauce:
- While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, vinegar, and honey in a bowl.
5. Combining Cauliflower and Sauce:
- Once the cauliflower is cooked, toss it in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions.
6. Serving:
- Serve the Gobi Manchurian hot as an appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences. More chili sauce can be added for a spicier dish or increase the honey for a sweeter profile.
- Cooking Time: Depending on the air fryer model, cooking times may vary. Start checking the cauliflower at the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Arrangement: Proper arrangement in the air fryer basket is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Do not stack the florets on top of each other.
- Serving Suggestions: Gobi Manchurian can be enjoyed on its own or served with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a fuller meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Indo-Chinese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Air Fryer Gobi Manchurian
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
How to Reheat Gobi Manchurian in the Air Fryer
Reheating Gobi Manchurian in an air fryer is a fantastic way to restore its crispy texture while keeping it delicious. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even reheating.
- Arrange the Gobi Manchurian in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow for proper air circulation.
- Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
- Check the warmth and crispiness. If necessary, heat for an additional 1-2 minutes. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the cauliflower.
- Serve immediately after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Gobi Manchurian, with its tangy and spicy flavors, pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Here are some serving and pairing ideas:
- Main/Side Dishes: Serve alongside jasmine or basmati rice for a simple yet satisfying meal. For a heartier option, pair with noodles or a stir-fried vegetable dish.
- Pairings: Complements light beers or a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to balance the spice.
- Creative Serving: For a fun twist, use lettuce wraps to serve Gobi Manchurian as a low-carb option, or top a bowl of Asian-style slaw for added crunch and freshness.
See also: Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Gobi Manchurian
Achieving the perfect Gobi Manchurian in an air fryer is all about balancing crispiness with flavor. Here’s how you can ensure it comes out just right every time:
- Preheating the Air Fryer: Always start with a preheated air fryer for a uniformly crispy texture.
- Batter Consistency: The batter should coat the cauliflower well but not be too thick. A thinner batter crisps up better in the air fryer.
- Single Layer: Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer with space between each piece. This ensures each floret is evenly cooked and crispy.
- Shaking the Basket: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to turn the florets. This promotes an even crisp.
- Sauce Application: Toss the air-fried cauliflower in the sauce right before serving to maintain its crunch.
- Flavor Maximization: Experiment with different seasonings in the batter and sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Avoiding Sogginess: If the Gobi Manchurian becomes soggy, pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to re-crisp.
- Temperature and Time: Cooking at 380°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes is optimal. Adjust based on your air fryer model and desired crispiness.
- Cleaning: To prevent smoke and smell during cooking, ensure the air fryer is clean and free from residue.
Final Words
Gobi Manchurian made in the air fryer is a game-changer for those seeking a healthier yet equally delicious alternative to traditional frying.
With its crispy texture and robust flavors, it’s a testament to how versatile and efficient air frying can be. This recipe not only offers a lighter take on a beloved dish but also opens up a world of culinary creativity.
Feel encouraged to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your perfect blend. Embrace the process and enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite of your air fryer Gobi Manchurian.
See all in at KitGiz for Air Fryer recipes.
