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Dusshera is celebrated in many regions of India with meals that bring families and communities together. A wide spread of savoury items and sweets usually forms the centre of these festive tables. Conventional frying has always been part of this ritual, yet with growing attention to health and convenience, households have begun to explore new methods. The air fryer is one appliance that has transformed preparation of festive foods. The Usha air fryer, for instance, has found a place in Indian homes as a reliable companion during large gatherings, reducing excess oil without taking away the familiar taste.
Air frying allows one to cook pakoras, samosas, kebabs, and even sweets that once required deep frying. The circulation of hot air achieves crispness in texture, but with a fraction of the oil. For a festival like Dusshera, where many dishes are prepared in bulk, this method helps reduce the time spent in the kitchen. At the same time, it makes it easier to serve a larger group without compromising on the variety of food offered. The following dishes are suitable for an air fryer and can be included in your festive spread, bringing together taste, convenience, and tradition.
1. Sabudana Vada
Sabudana vada is usually prepared during fasting days but also enjoyed during festive occasions for its light yet filling quality. The mixture of soaked sabudana, mashed potato, roasted peanuts, and green chilli is shaped into patties before cooking. Traditionally, they are deep fried until golden, which makes them very oily. In an air fryer, the shaped vadas can be brushed lightly with oil and cooked until crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside. The air fryer method keeps the shape intact and avoids excess greasiness. These vadas pair well with sweetened yoghurt or green chutney, making them ideal for a breakfast plate or an evening snack during Dusshera gatherings.
2. Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is a dish that finds a place in almost every festive meal. Cubes of paneer are marinated with curd, turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin, and a small amount of mustard oil to deepen flavour. Slices of onion and capsicum can be added into the mix before skewering. In an air fryer, these skewers cook evenly with a slight char on the edges, replicating the effect of a tandoor without requiring a clay oven or grill. During Dusshera feasts where many dishes are served together, paneer tikka can be prepared in batches quickly. This allows it to be presented hot and fresh to guests without demanding long preparation time.
3. Samosa
Samosa is a favourite at any festive gathering. The filling often differs by region, with potatoes and peas forming the most common version, while some households prefer lentil or onion mixtures. Shaping and sealing the pastry is the most time-consuming part, but once that is complete, the air fryer can handle the cooking without needing a large vessel of hot oil. Brushing each samosa with a small amount of oil before air frying gives the outer layer a golden crispness. During Dusshera celebrations, samosas are often served with tamarind or mint chutney, and the air fryer preparation ensures that a large batch can be made with less mess in the kitchen.
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4. Besan Ladoo
Sweets play a vital role in Dusshera celebrations, and besan ladoo is one of the most common. Traditionally, gram flour is roasted in ghee until aromatic, then mixed with sugar and shaped into balls. While the roasting cannot be avoided, shaping and setting can be simplified. The air fryer can be used to lightly roast the flour evenly without risk of burning, reducing the need for constant stirring on the stove. This ensures a uniform golden colour and nutty taste. When the mixture is combined with powdered sugar and ghee, the ladoos hold their form well. They can be garnished with chopped pistachios or almonds to add a festive touch before serving to family and guests.
5. Tandoori Aloo
Tandoori aloo, often served as appetisers, bring a balance of spice and crispness to the table. Baby potatoes are parboiled, peeled, and coated in a yoghurt marinade with ginger, garlic, garam masala, and a touch of lemon juice. Traditionally they are roasted in a clay oven, but the air fryer offers an easy substitute. Cooking in the air fryer ensures a charred surface while keeping the inside soft. This dish works well for large gatherings as the marinade can be prepared a day before and the potatoes cooked in batches as guests arrive. A sprinkle of fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon before serving completes the presentation.
