This popular Indo-Chinese street food dish is typically air-fried cauliflower florets tossed in a sticky, sweet, and spicy red chili sauce. I have a great variation of the original Manchurian recipe by air frying the florets instead of deep frying. The result is a unique flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. I agree to be sent email.
An air fryer allows you to enjoy your favorite dishes guilt-free, as it uses very little oil compared to deep-fried versions. You can now indulge in delicious chili gobi without worrying about the added calories and fat. Like my air fryer recipes like lasuni gobi, tandoori gobi, and air fryer cauliflower 65, this recipe is perfect for those looking for healthier options without compromising taste and flavor. My kids were very excited when I made this Indo-Chinese cauliflower Manchurian for the first time in the air fryer. They loved the crispy texture of florets simmered in the Manchurian gravy. You should try this too!
Why I love this dish
This dish is a healthier version of the traditional deep-fried gobi manchurian, making it guilt-free and perfect for those watching their calorie intake. The air fryer gives the cauliflower florets a crispy texture without excessive oil. Using an air fryer, you can make this dish in just minutes, saving you time and effort. It’s a great main dish if you pair it with sticky rice and a side dish of sliced cucumbers. This dish is a great way to add some variety to your meals while still incorporating healthy ingredients like cauliflower. Lastly, make your favorite appetizer at home for a fraction of what you would pay for Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Capsicum/bell peppers Green onions Soya sauce or tamari - for a gluten-free option. Tomato ketchup or tomato sauce. Chili sauce or sriracha - adjust according to your spice preference. Vinegar or lemon juice - adds tanginess to the dish. All-purpose flour, cornstarch, and spices
Instructions
Place the battered cauliflower florets on a baking cooling rack to let the extra batter drip down. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F for 3 minutes. Meanwhile, place a large pan over medium heat and add a few teaspoons of sesame oil. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Accompanying Rice: Serve it with steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a satisfying meal. With Noodles: You can toss it with some Hakka noodles or chow mein for a delightful one-pot meal.
Variations
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour like rice flour instead of all-purpose flour, and ensure your sauces are gluten-free too. Spicier Version: Add extra red chili powder or red pepper flakes if you prefer your Gobi Manchurian spicier.
Top tips
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make this dish by baking the cauliflower florets in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes. You could use ginger garlic paste if you do not have fresh ingredients. For a crispier texture, lightly spray the batter-coated cauliflower florets with oil before placing them in the air fryer.
Can I add store-bought Manchurian sauce?
You can use store-bought Manchurian sauce instead of the homemade sauce mentioned in this recipe. However, read the ingredients carefully and choose a brand with minimal preservatives and additives.
Storage
This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking for maximum crispiness. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the gobi Manchurian in the microwave for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I add any sweetener to the recipe?
The combination of tomato ketchup, and chili sauce, provides a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. However, if you prefer a sweeter version, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of maple syrup or brown sugar to the sauce. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
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