Meal Prep · Indian-Chinese Fusion
Air Fryer Gobi Manchurian
Indulge in crispy, flavorful Gobi Manchurian, guilt-free, made perfectly in your air fryer!
Ingredients
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Step-by-step- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and pat dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly. Ensure they are completely dry for best crispiness.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Gradually add water, whisking until you get a thick, smooth batter that coats the back of a spoon.
- Coat and Air Fry: Add the cauliflower florets to the batter and toss gently to ensure each floret is evenly coated. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the coated florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches.
- Air Fry the Cauliflower: Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. Set aside.
- Prepare the Manchurian Sauce: Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped ginger and garlic, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain a crunch.
- Add Sauces and Seasonings: Stir in soy sauce, red chili sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water/vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Thicken the Sauce: Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir and add it to the simmering sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
- Combine and Serve: Add the air-fried crispy cauliflower florets to the thickened sauce. Toss gently to coat all the florets. Garnish with chopped spring onion greens and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately as an appetizer or with fried rice/noodles.
Nutrition
Per serving| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
Storage & Freezer Guide
Make it last Refrigerator 2-3 days
Store leftover Gobi Manchurian in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cauliflower may lose some crispiness.
Freezer Not recommended
Gobi Manchurian does not freeze well as the cauliflower becomes soggy upon thawing. Best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat Air Fryer/Stovetop
To reheat, spread on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, gently warm in a pan on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed, though crispiness will be minimal.
Chef’s Corner
- Dry Cauliflower is Key: Ensure your cauliflower florets are completely dry before coating with batter. Excess moisture will prevent them from becoming crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by increasing or decreasing the red chili powder in the batter and the red chili sauce in the sauce. A pinch of black pepper can also add a nice kick.
- Sweet and Sour Balance: Taste the sauce before adding the cauliflower and adjust sugar or vinegar to achieve your preferred sweet and sour balance.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve Air Fryer Gobi Manchurian as soon as it’s prepared, as the cauliflower tends to soften over time in the sauce.
