Can You Use an Air Fryer for Falahari Foods? Top Vrat-Friendly Recipes to Try

Fasts during festivals are a significant part of Indian culture, often associated with spirituality and rituals. One of the main challenges that come with fasting is preparing delicious and nutritious meals that adhere to the specific dietary restrictions. Enter the air fryer—a modern kitchen appliance that allows you to create crispy and delicious Falahari foods without the guilt of excessive oil. In this blog, we'll explore how you can use an air fryer for Falahari meals and provide you with top vrat-friendly recipes to try.

What are Falahari Foods?

Falahari foods are dishes prepared especially during religious fasts. They generally include specific ingredients that are allowed during fasting periods such as potatoes, sabudana (sago), and various fruits and nuts. The air fryer provides a fantastic way to prepare these foods with less oil, simplifying the cooking process while keeping the meals flavorful and crispy.

Can We Eat Sabudana Vada in Navratri Fast?

Yes, Sabudana Vada can be enjoyed during Navratri fasting. Made from sago, potatoes, and peanuts, this delicious treat is a popular choice for many who fast during this period.

What is Not Allowed in Navratri Fast?

During Navratri fasts, foods like wheat, rice, pulses, and non-vegetarian items are prohibited. It's essential to stick to permitted items, including fruits, sago, and specific vegetables.

The Perfect Match: Air Fryer and Falahari Foods

The air fryer has rapidly gained popularity for its ability to prepare foods with significantly less oil compared to traditional frying methods. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to prepare healthy versions of their favorite Falahari foods during festivals and fasts.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Falahari Foods

1. Less Oil: An air fryer requires minimal oil, making your dishes healthier without compromising on taste.
2. Time Efficiency: Cooking time is significantly reduced with an air fryer, allowing you to focus on other festive preparations.
3. Versatile Cooking: Use an air fryer for frying, roasting, baking, and grilling, providing endless possibilities for your Falahari meals.

For those looking for the best air fryer in India, consider various models based on your budget and needs. You can find air fryers starting at affordable prices of around air fryer under 5000 on different online platforms.

Best Falahari Recipes for Your Air Fryer

Here are some delicious and easy-to-make Falahari recipes that you can whip up using your air fryer.

1. Air Fryer Sabudana Vada

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sabudana (sago)
• 2 medium-sized potatoes (boiled and mashed)
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts (coarsely ground)
• 1-2 green chilies (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander leaves
• Oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Soak the sabudana in water for 5-6 hours until soft.
2. In a bowl, combine soaked sabudana, mashed potatoes, ground peanuts, chilies, cumin seeds, salt, and coriander.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties and brush them lightly with oil.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 5 minutes.
5. Place the vadas in the basket and cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

2. Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes (cut into wedges)
• 2 tablespoons rock salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions:

1. Parboil the potato wedges for 5 minutes and drain.
2. In a bowl, mix the potatoes with oil, salt, pepper, and cumin powder.
3. Preheat the air fryer.
4. Cook the wedges for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden.

3. Air Fryer Khichdi with Samak Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup samak rice
• 1/4 cup moong dal
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
• Salt to taste
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Rinse samak rice and moong dal until the water runs clear.
2. Heat ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds and chilies.
3. Add rice and dal, then pour in water and salt.
4. Transfer to the air fryer and cook at 180°C (356°F) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the khichdi is cooked through.

4. Air Fryer Vegetable Fritters

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated bottle gourd (lauki)
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• Chopped green chilies
• Oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Squeeze out excess water from grated bottle gourd.
2. In a bowl, mix together the grated vegetables, besan, cumin seeds, salt, and chilies to form a batter.
3. Shape the mixture into small fritters and brush lightly with oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer and place the fritters in the basket. Cook for about 12-15 minutes at 180°C (356°F), flipping halfway through.

5. Air Fryer Papad

Ingredients:

• 4-5 papads (thin lentil chips)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (392°F).
2. Place the papads in a single layer in the basket.
3. Air fry for about 3-5 minutes or until they puff and turn crisp.

6. Air Fryer Fruit Chips

Ingredients:

• 2 apples or bananas (sliced thin)
• A little lemon juice
• Cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Toss fruit slices with lemon juice and cinnamon if desired.
2. Arrange the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Cook at 160°C (320°F) for 15-20 minutes, checking occasionally until they reach the desired crispiness.

The Future of Cooking Falahari Foods with Air Fryers

The air fryer opens up new horizons for preparing healthy Falahari foods that taste amazing. As we continue to embrace technology in our kitchens, it’s important to choose a reliable model. When searching for products, look for options like the truTRTL Smart Digital Air Fryer, which you can find here. This model combines ease of use with efficiency, making it a great addition to your kitchen.

If you're looking for something more budget-friendly, TRUTRTL also offers air fryers under 5000, available for purchase online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Falahari snacks in the air fryer?
Yes, you can prepare a variety of Falahari snacks in an air fryer, including Sabudana Vada, potato wedges, and more, using much less oil.

2. Is an air fryer better than a traditional fryer for health?
Absolutely! An air fryer uses significantly less oil, which makes your meals lower in fat and calories compared to traditional frying methods.

3. What is the average air fryer price in India?
The air fryer price typically ranges from INR 3,000 to INR 15,000, depending on the brand and features.

4. Which is the best air fryer in India?
The truTRTL Smart Digital Air Fryer is often recommended for its performance and ease of use, allowing you to prepare delicious meals effortlessly. Check it out here.

5. Can an air fryer replace my oven?
Yes, many find that an air fryer can perform functions similar to a convection oven for smaller batches of food, particularly for roasting and baking.

6. Where can I purchase an air fryer online?
You can find a wide selection of air fryers online. Check out truTRTL for various options and deals here.

Conclusion

Using an air fryer for Falahari foods has revolutionized the way we prepare meals during fasting. With its ability to offer healthier cooking options without sacrificing taste, you can enjoy classic dishes with a modern twist. The recipes shared above not only keep you aligned with your fasting rules but also add variety to your meal preparations. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving something delicious, these air fryer recipes are sure to please.

Explore more on our website truTRTL and make the most of your cooking experience with the best air fryers on the market. Don’t forget to follow our social media for tips and updates: Facebook, Instagram  and YouTube.