Welcome to the ultimate guide for preparing delectable Indian cuisine with the convenience and health benefits of an air fryer! For too long, the perception of Indian food has been confined to restaurant staples, often associated with rich, deeply fried preparations. While classics like pakora, samosa, and bhaji hold a special place, India’s culinary landscape is vastly diverse, boasting a magnificent array of regional flavors, textures, and cooking techniques. This collection aims to unveil the magic of preparing authentic and inspired Indian dishes right in your home kitchen, utilizing the air fryer to achieve that coveted crispness and succulent tenderness with significantly less oil.
The air fryer has emerged as a game-changer for health-conscious food lovers and busy home cooks alike. It mimics the results of deep-frying by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior and perfectly cooked interior, all while using a fraction of the oil. This makes it an ideal appliance for countless Indian recipes, transforming traditional snacks, appetizers, and even main courses into healthier, guilt-free versions without compromising on the vibrant spices and rich flavors that define Indian cooking.
In this expansive collection, we bring you a treasure trove of the best air fryer Indian recipes, many curated from talented Indian food bloggers. Whether you’re seeking healthy Indian vegetarian air fryer recipes, innovative Indian snack recipes for the air fryer, or hearty main dishes, you’ll find inspiration here. We’ll explore everything from savory fritters and crispy vegetables to succulent kebabs and delightful desserts, all adapted for your air fryer. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey, making healthy Indian dishes more accessible and enjoyable than ever before, with easy-to-follow, step-by-step guidance.
Air Fryer Samosa: Crispy, Guilt-Free Perfection
Samosas are perhaps one of India’s most iconic snacks, beloved for their crispy, flaky crust and savory, spiced fillings. Traditionally deep-fried, they can often feel like an indulgence. But what if you could enjoy all that deliciousness with significantly less oil? The air fryer makes it possible! You can effortlessly air fry various types of samosas—whether they’re frozen mini samosas, classic potato and pea-filled veggie samosas, or even chicken samosas. The circulating hot air ensures a beautifully golden-brown and wonderfully crispy exterior, mimicking the texture of deep-frying without the added fat. They make for a perfect appetizer, a delightful tea-time snack, or a quick party bite that everyone will love, offering a healthier twist on a beloved classic.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Samosa
Nan Khatai: Air Fryer Indian Shortbread Cookies
Nan Khatai are exquisite Indian shortbread cookies, cherished for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle, aromatic spices. Typically made with a blend of all-purpose flour, chickpea flour (besan), and semolina, these cookies offer a unique richness and crumbly consistency. While traditionally baked in an oven, the air fryer proves to be an excellent alternative, providing a consistent bake that results in perfectly golden and tender cookies. Preparing Nan Khatai in the air fryer is not only convenient but also helps achieve that desirable light crispness on the outside while remaining wonderfully soft within. They are an ideal accompaniment to a cup of chai or coffee, making for a delightful dessert or an elegant tea-time treat.
Get the recipe: Nan Khatai – Indian Cookies
Crispy Paneer: A Protein-Packed Air Fryer Snack
Paneer, the quintessential Indian cheese, is a versatile ingredient prized for its firm texture and mild flavor. When prepared in the air fryer, paneer transforms into a calcium-packed, utterly irresistible snack with a beautifully crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior. This “Crispy Paneer” is not only a fantastic healthy Indian snack but also makes for an impressive party starter or a nutritious treat for kids. Seasoned with your favorite spices, the paneer cubes achieve a golden perfection in the air fryer with minimal oil, offering a satisfying crunch without the guilt associated with deep-frying. It’s a delightful way to enjoy paneer, bursting with flavor and making healthy eating truly delicious.
Get the recipe: Crispy Paneer – Airfryer Recipe
Dal Vada: Vegan & Gluten-Free Lentil Fritters
Dal Vada, savory lentil fritters, are a cherished snack across India, typically deep-fried to achieve their characteristic crispness. However, this air fryer version offers a healthier and equally delicious alternative. Made with a flavorful blend of red lentils and chana dal (split chickpeas), these fritters are seasoned with aromatic spices to create a truly delightful bite. The air fryer works wonders here, producing beautifully crisp vadas that are golden on the outside and tender on the inside, all while being remarkably low in oil. As a bonus, these Dal Vadas are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them a fantastic choice for a light meal, a wholesome snack, or an appetizer that caters to various dietary preferences without compromising on taste or texture.
Get the recipe: Dal Vada – Lentil Fritters In Air Fryer
Methi Muthia: Healthy Gujarati Fenugreek Dumplings
Originating from the vibrant state of Gujarat, Methi Muthia are savory, spiced dumplings primarily made with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) and various flours. Traditionally, these can be steamed and then pan-fried, but the air fryer offers an incredibly convenient and healthier method to achieve their desirable texture. These delicious vegan Indian air fryer delights are incredibly versatile, perfect for breakfast, a fulfilling tea-time snack, or even as part of a light meal. The air fryer ensures they are cooked evenly, developing a lovely golden crust while remaining soft and flavorful inside, capturing the authentic essence of this popular Gujarati delicacy with a modern, health-conscious twist. You’ll truly appreciate the convenience and delectable taste of this air-fried version.
Get the recipe: Methi Muthia (Steamed, Fried, Air-Fryer)
Aloo Gobi: Roasted Indian Spiced Potatoes & Cauliflower
Aloo Gobi, the classic Indian dish of potatoes and cauliflower, is a staple in many households, cherished for its comforting flavors and nutritional value. This roasted version, especially when prepared in the air fryer, takes the dish to new heights. Simply toss fresh cauliflower florets and potato chunks with a vibrant blend of Indian spices, and let your air fryer do the magic. The result is perfectly roasted vegetables—tender potatoes and delightfully firm cauliflower that isn’t mushy, retaining its texture and absorbing all the aromatic spices. It’s an incredibly quick preparation, taking less than 20 minutes to assemble and cook, making it an ideal healthy Indian side dish for busy weeknights. Enjoy this quintessential Indian veggie dish, perfectly cooked and bursting with authentic flavors.
Get the recipe: Roasted Aloo Gobi (Indian Spiced Potato & Cauliflower)
Bharwa Bindi: Flavorful Stuffed Okra in the Air Fryer
Bharwa Bindi, or stuffed okra, is an exquisite Indian side dish known for its vibrant flavors and tender texture. This recipe offers a wonderful way to prepare okra, filling each pod with a tantalizing mix of aromatic spices. Traditionally, this dish might involve pan-frying or shallow-frying, but the air fryer provides a healthier and equally effective method. Cooking Bharwa Bindi in the air fryer ensures that the okra is perfectly cooked—tender yet not slimy—while the spices develop a deeper, more complex flavor. This vegan, low-calorie, and gluten-free preparation makes for a fantastic healthy Indian dish that’s bursting with taste and offers a delightful accompaniment to any meal. You’ll love discovering this flavorful side that challenges any preconceived notions about okra.
Get the recipe: Stuffed Okra – Bharwa Bhindi (Air Fryer)
Air Fryer Indian Cauliflower Bites: Aromatic & Crispy
These Air Fryer Indian Cauliflower Bites are a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary with the right spices and cooking method. Fresh cauliflower florets are coated in a fragrant blend of Indian spices and then air-fried to perfection, resulting in tender-crisp bites that are incredibly addictive. The air fryer ensures each piece achieves a beautiful caramelization and a slight char, enhancing their natural sweetness and the depth of the spices. As a naturally vegan and gluten-free option, these cauliflower bites make a wonderful healthy Indian side dish that pairs well with almost any meal, or they can be served as a delightful appetizer for gatherings. They are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables.
Get the recipe: Indian Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites
Malai Kofta: Rich Vegetarian Curry with Air-Fried Kofta
Malai Kofta is a luxurious and highly popular vegetarian curry, renowned for its soft, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings (kofta) submerged in a creamy, rich gravy. Traditionally, these kofta, made from paneer and potatoes, are deep-fried before being added to the sauce. This recipe ingeniously adapts the preparation for the air fryer, allowing you to achieve perfectly cooked kofta with significantly less oil, making the dish healthier without sacrificing its indulgent texture. The air fryer crisps the exterior of the kofta beautifully while keeping the interior tender. Once air-fried, these delicate dumplings are introduced to a luscious gravy, which can also be conveniently prepared in an Instant Pot. This dual-appliance approach ensures a simplified cooking process for a truly magnificent vegetarian main course.
Get the recipe: Malai Kofta (Air Fryer or Instant Pot)
Begun Bhaja: Quick & Easy Air Fryer Eggplant Slices
Begun Bhaja, or fried eggplant slices, is a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish originating from Bengali cuisine. Traditionally shallow-fried, these delicate eggplant rounds are often seasoned with minimal spices, allowing the natural sweetness of the eggplant to shine. Our air fryer adaptation makes this classic dish even easier and healthier to prepare. Requiring just a handful of ingredients and less than 15 minutes to cook, these air-fried eggplant slices emerge beautifully tender with lightly crisped edges. The air fryer eliminates the need for excessive oil, creating a light and wholesome side that perfectly complements a variety of Indian meals, from rice and dal to rotis and curries. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create profound flavors with the right cooking technique.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Begun Bhaja
Paneer Tikka: Spiced & Crispy Air Fryer Indian Cheese
Paneer Tikka is a wildly popular vegetarian appetizer, usually prepared in a traditional tandoor oven, imparting a smoky char and tender texture. This air fryer recipe allows you to achieve a remarkably similar result right in your kitchen, with added convenience and less oil. Cubes of paneer are marinated in a vibrant blend of yogurt and aromatic spices, then coated in gram flour (besan) to create a beautiful crust. The air fryer cooks these spiced paneer cubes to crispy perfection, developing a delightful golden-brown exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Serve them as a delicious appetizer, a protein-rich snack, or even threaded onto skewers with vegetables for a vibrant main course. This Air Fryer Paneer Tikka is an absolute crowd-pleaser, delivering all the authentic flavors you love in a healthier format.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Paneer Tikka
Chicken Tikka Kebab: Juicy & Flavorful Air Fryer Appetizer
Chicken Tikka Kebab is a globally recognized Indian appetizer, celebrated for its tender, succulent pieces of chicken bursting with smoky and spicy flavors. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, this air fryer method allows you to recreate that incredible taste and texture with ease. It begins with bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in a rich mixture of yogurt, tangy lime juice, and a blend of aromatic Indian spices. Once marinated, the chicken is threaded onto skewers and cooked in the air fryer until it’s beautifully charred on the edges and perfectly cooked through, retaining its juiciness. This method drastically cuts down on oil while delivering an authentic, mouth-watering appetizer or a light main course. It’s the perfect healthy Indian air fryer recipe for entertaining or a flavorful weeknight meal.
Get the recipe: Chicken Tikka Kebab
Chicken Tangdi Kebab: Zero-Oil Air Fryer Drumsticks
Chicken Tangdi Kebab, featuring succulent chicken drumsticks, is a beloved Indian dish that’s known for its robust flavors and tender meat. This particular air fryer recipe takes it to another level by achieving astonishingly juicy and succulent chicken with virtually zero added oil. The drumsticks are marinated in a potent blend of spices and yogurt, allowing the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat. When cooked in the air fryer, the hot circulating air creates a beautifully crisp skin while locking in all the moisture, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken. It’s an absolutely perfect dish for a lively party, a special family gathering, or even as a delightful midweek treat when you’re craving something flavorful and healthy. Enjoy this guilt-free indulgence that proves healthy cooking can be exceptionally delicious.
Get the recipe: Chicken Tangdi Kebab in an Airfyer
Onion Bhaji: Crispy Air-Fried Indian Onion Fritters
Onion Bhaji are a cornerstone of Indian snack culture, celebrated for their irresistibly crispy texture and aromatic, savory flavor. Traditionally, these spiced onion fritters are deep-fried, but the air fryer offers a fantastic way to enjoy them with much less oil, making them a healthier indulgence. This convenient cooking method allows you to achieve that coveted golden-brown crispness and a perfectly tender interior, retaining all the authentic deliciousness of this classic Indian snack. Whether you’re making them from scratch or air-frying frozen bhaji, the result is a delightful, guilt-free treat that’s perfect for appetizers, tea time, or anytime you crave a crunchy, flavorful bite. Experience the joy of classic Onion Bhaji, reimagined for your air fryer.
Get the recipe: Frozen Onion Bhaji in Air Fryer
Sing Bhujia (Masala Peanuts): Spiced Air-Fried Peanuts
Sing Bhujia, commonly known as Masala Peanuts, is a beloved traditional Indian snack, typically deep-fried to achieve its addictive crunch. This air fryer recipe offers a brilliant, healthier twist, transforming it into a guilt-free pleasure. Peanuts are coated in a spiced gram flour (besan) mixture, infused with a medley of aromatic Indian spices, and then air-fried until perfectly crispy and golden. The air fryer ensures each peanut is evenly cooked and wonderfully crunchy without the need for excessive oil, making this a much lighter alternative to the traditional preparation. It’s a flavorful, crunchy treat that’s ideal for munching anytime, whether as a party snack, a simple tea-time accompaniment, or just when you need a satisfyingly savory bite. Prepare to fall in love with these air-fried masala peanuts.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Masala Peanuts
Roasted Makhana: Healthy Air Fryer Fox Nut Snack
Roasted Makhana, or fox nuts, are a fantastic light and nutritious snack gaining popularity for their health benefits and satisfying crunch. Naturally gluten-free and low in calories, makhana are a wonderful alternative to popcorn or other fried snacks. This air fryer recipe takes their preparation to the next level of convenience and flavor. Simply season the fox nuts with your choice of spices—from savory and spicy to subtly sweet—and air-fry them until they achieve an irresistible, delicate crunch. The air fryer evenly roasts the makhana, ensuring every piece is perfectly crisp without the need for much oil. It’s a perfect guilt-free munching option for any time of the day, offering a wholesome and delicious way to snack healthy. Discover your new favorite healthy Indian snack with air-fried makhana.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Makhana
Bitter Gourd Chips: Unique & Healthy Air Fryer Snack
For those seeking a truly unique and healthy snack, these Air Fryer Bitter Gourd Chips are a revelation. Bitter gourd, known for its distinctive tangy flavor and numerous health benefits, is thinly sliced, seasoned with an aromatic blend of Indian spices, and then air-fried until it transforms into remarkably crispy chips. This ingenious preparation method allows you to enjoy the nutritional goodness of bitter gourd in an incredibly palatable and addictive form, completely eliminating the need for deep-frying. The air fryer ensures each chip is evenly cooked to a perfect crispness, offering a delicious and nutritious alternative to conventional potato chips. It’s a bold and flavorful snack that might just surprise you with how delightful healthy eating can be.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Bitter Gourd Chips
Bhindi Kurkuri: Crispy Air-Fried Okra Snack
Bhindi Kurkuri, meaning “crispy okra,” is an utterly delightful and addictive Indian snack that promises a burst of flavor and an unparalleled crunch. Traditionally, this involves deep-frying thinly sliced okra coated in a spiced gram flour batter. However, this air fryer version offers all the irresistible qualities of the classic dish with a significant reduction in oil, making it a much healthier option. The air fryer crisps the coated okra beautifully, transforming it into a crunchy, savory treat that’s perfect for munching. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a rich blend of spices. This healthier Air Fryer Bhindi Kurkuri retains all the authentic flavors and texture without the excess oil, proving that healthy snacks can be incredibly satisfying and delicious.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Bhindi Kurkuri
Chicken Seekh Kebabs: Lean & Flavorful Air-Fried Skewers
Chicken Seekh Kebabs are a truly delectable Indian appetizer or main dish, known for their cylindrical shape, tender texture, and intensely aromatic flavors. Made from finely minced chicken mixed with a complex blend of herbs and spices, these kebabs are traditionally cooked in a tandoor. This air fryer recipe offers a fantastic way to prepare them, ensuring they are golden brown on the outside and wonderfully moist and flavorful within, all with considerably less fat. Shaped onto skewers, the kebabs cook evenly in the air fryer, developing a perfect texture and retaining all their delicious juices. Serve these Air Fryer Chicken Seekh Kebabs as an impressive appetizer for guests or as a satisfying, low-fat main dish alongside a fresh salad and a drizzle of mint chutney. They are a delightful testament to healthy Indian cooking.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Seekh Kebabs
Tandoori Chicken Tikka: Authentic Flavor, Air Fryer Convenience
Tandoori Chicken Tikka is an iconic Indian dish, beloved for its vibrant color, smoky aroma, and incredibly juicy, flavorful chicken pieces. Traditionally prepared in a super-hot clay tandoor oven, this air fryer recipe brings all those authentic tastes and textures right into your home kitchen, but with unparalleled convenience and a healthier profile. Tender chicken pieces are generously marinated in a classic blend of yogurt and robust Indian spices, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the meat. The air fryer then cooks the chicken to perfection, creating beautifully charred edges and a succulent interior, without the need for a traditional tandoor or excessive oil. Enjoy this delicious, healthier alternative to traditional tandoori chicken, offering all the authentic flavors you crave in a simple, fuss-free manner. It’s an ideal choice for a family dinner or a vibrant appetizer.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken Tikka