Olivia Carter
Are you a fan of Indian cuisine? Do you crave the delicious and fluffy bhatura but want to make it a healthier option? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you on how to make bhatura in an air fryer, reducing the amount of oil used without compromising on the taste and texture.
Bhatura is a popular Indian bread made from a fermented dough that is deep-fried until it puffs up, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture. Traditionally, it requires a significant amount of oil for frying, which can be unhealthy. However, by using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy and golden exterior with minimal oil.
To make bhatura in an air fryer, you will need a few basic ingredients such as all-purpose flour, yogurt, baking powder, salt, sugar, and water. The process involves preparing the dough, letting it ferment for a few hours, shaping it into balls, and air frying them until they are golden and puffed.
By following our step-by-step instructions, you will be able to enjoy the delightful taste of bhatura while keeping it light and healthy. So grab your air fryer and let’s get started on this exciting culinary adventure!
Overview of Bhatura
Bhatura is a popular North Indian dish that is often enjoyed with chole, a spicy chickpea curry. It is a deep-fried bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Bhatura is made from a simple dough that is typically made with all-purpose flour, yogurt, oil, and a pinch of salt.
The dough is kneaded until it becomes smooth and elastic, and then left to rest for a short period of time. This resting time allows the dough to relax and develop its flavors, resulting in a more delicious and tender bhatura.
Traditional Method and Air Fryer Method
Traditionally, bhatura is deep-fried in a large amount of oil until it puffs up and becomes golden brown. However, with the rise in popularity of air fryers, many people are now opting to make bhatura in an air fryer as a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
When making bhatura in an air fryer, the dough is still prepared in the same way. However, instead of deep-frying the bhatura, it is cooked in the air fryer for a shorter period of time. The result is a bhatura that is still crispy and delicious, but with less oil and fewer calories.
Benefits of Using an Air Fryer
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food, providing a healthier alternative to deep frying. Here are some of the benefits of using an air fryer:
- Healthier Cooking Option: Air fryers require little to no oil, making it a healthier cooking option compared to traditional frying. This can help reduce calorie intake and lower the risk of heart disease and obesity.
- Reduced Fat Content: By using the circulating hot air, an air fryer can achieve a crispy texture on food without the need for excessive oil. This means you can enjoy your favorite fried foods with significantly less fat.
- Time-Saving: Air fryers cook food faster than traditional ovens. They use a convection heating method, which circulates the hot air evenly around the food, resulting in shorter cooking times.
- Versatility: Air fryers are not limited to frying. They can also be used for grilling, roasting, baking, and even reheating leftovers. This makes them a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks.
- Easier Cleanup: Air fryers are generally easy to clean compared to traditional frying methods. Many models feature removable cooking baskets and trays that can be easily washed or placed in a dishwasher.
- Energy Efficient: Air fryers require less energy to operate compared to traditional ovens or deep fryers. This can result in energy savings over time and lower utility bills.
- Safe to Use: Air fryers come with safety features such as automatic shut-off and cool-touch handles, reducing the risk of accidents and burns. They also eliminate the need for hot oil, which can be dangerous.
Overall, using an air fryer provides a convenient and healthier way to cook your favorite foods. With its versatility and benefits, it’s no wonder why air fryers have become a popular choice in many kitchens.
Ingredients for Making Bhatura
Before you start making bhatura in an air fryer, make sure you have the following ingredients:
1. All-Purpose Flour
The main ingredient in bhatura is all-purpose flour. You will need about 2 cups of it.
2. Yogurt
Yogurt is used to make the bhatura dough soft and pliable. You will need about 1/2 cup of yogurt.
3. Baking Powder
Baking powder is added to the dough to make the bhaturas fluffy. You will need about 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder.
4. Sugar
A small amount of sugar is added to the dough for flavor. You will need about 1/2 teaspoon of sugar.
5. Salt
Salt is added to enhance the flavor of the bhatura dough. You will need about 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
6. Oil
Oil is needed for frying the bhaturas. You will need about 2 cups of oil.
7. Water
Water is used to make the dough for bhaturas. You will need about 1/2 cup of water.
With these ingredients, you will be able to make delicious and crispy bhaturas in an air fryer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bhatura in an Air Fryer
Bhatura is a popular Indian bread that is usually served with Chole (Chickpea Curry). Traditionally, it is deep-fried, but if you want a healthier alternative, you can make bhatura in an air fryer. Follow these steps to make delicious bhatura in an air fryer:
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients well.
Step 2: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add 1/2 cup of yogurt and 2 tablespoons of oil. Mix the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until a crumbly texture is formed.
Step 3: Slowly add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and knead the dough until it becomes soft and pliable. The dough should not be too sticky or too dry. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 4: After the dough has rested, divide it into small lemon-sized balls. Roll each ball into a flat disc, about a quarter of an inch thick.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes. Brush the top of each rolled disc with a little oil.
Step 6: Place the rolled discs in the air fryer basket, oiled side up, leaving some space between each disc. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the bhatura in batches.
Step 7: Set the air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and cook the bhatura for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 8: Once cooked, remove the bhatura from the air fryer and brush them with a little melted ghee or butter for extra flavor.
Step 9: Serve the hot bhatura with Chole or your favorite curry. Enjoy!
Tip: You can also add a pinch of turmeric powder or a teaspoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to the dough for added flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bhatura in an Air Fryer
Preparing bhatura in an air fryer is a convenient and healthy alternative to deep frying. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure you get perfectly crispy and fluffy bhatura every time:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use the right dough consistency | The dough for bhatura should be soft and pliable. Add water gradually while kneading the dough to get the right consistency. Too much water can make the bhatura flat and chewy. |
| Let the dough rest | After kneading the dough, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the dough to relax, making it easier to roll and resulting in softer bhatura. |
| Roll the bhatura evenly | Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them evenly using a rolling pin. Make them slightly thicker than regular chapatis to ensure they rise properly in the air fryer. |
| Preheat the air fryer | Always preheat the air fryer before cooking bhatura. This helps in getting a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. |
| Brush the bhatura with oil | Lightly brush the bhatura with oil before placing them in the air fryer. This will enhance their golden color and crispiness. |
| Cook in batches | Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the bhatura in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy. |
| Check and flip | Check the bhatura halfway through the cooking process to ensure they are cooking evenly. Flip them if necessary for even browning. |
| Store properly | If you have leftovers, store the bhatura in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving. |
With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy delicious and healthier bhatura made in an air fryer. Experiment with different flavors and enjoy this popular Indian dish guilt-free.
FAQ
Is it possible to make Bhatura in an air fryer?
Yes, it is possible to make Bhatura in an air fryer. The air fryer provides a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying by using hot air circulation to cook the food.
What ingredients do I need to make Bhatura?
To make Bhatura, you will need all-purpose flour, yogurt, baking powder, sugar, salt, and oil for frying.
What is the process of making Bhatura in an air fryer?
To make Bhatura in an air fryer, start by combining all the dry ingredients in a bowl. Then, add yogurt and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes, then let it rest for 2 hours. After resting, divide the dough into small balls and flatten them into discs. Preheat the air fryer at 180 degrees Celsius, then place the Bhatura discs in the air fryer and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Bhatura?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Bhatura. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture compared to using all-purpose flour.
Can I make Bhatura without yogurt?
No, yogurt is an essential ingredient in making Bhatura as it helps to create a soft and fluffy texture. If you don’t have yogurt, you can try using buttermilk or a mixture of milk and lemon juice as a substitute.
