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Diwali has a way of turning every home into a little gathering spot. Relatives drop by, friends come over for card parties, and the snack table somehow becomes everyone's favourite corner. Of course, putting together a spread that goes beyond the usual namkeen, chips and mithai can take some planning. That's where Usha air fryer can come in handy. It helps you prepare an assortment of golden, crispy and flavourful bites without having to deep-fry every snack.
Think masala-coated nuts, succulent paneer tikka, vegetable kebabs and other party favourites. Here are six ideas to help you put together a Diwali platter that keeps everyone reaching for another bite.
1. Masala Cashews
A bowl of spiced nuts is almost essential at a festive gathering, especially when guests want something to munch on while catching up. Give regular roasted cashews a Diwali-inspired twist by tossing them with a little ghee, red chilli powder, roasted cumin powder, black pepper, chaat masala and salt.
Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at a moderate temperature, shaking the basket regularly to ensure equal roasting. You can also make a mixed nut dish using the same spice with almonds or peanuts.
2. Achari Paneer Tikka
At Indian parties, paneer tikka is a common appetiser. Simply marinate paneer cubes in a mixture of thick yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, mustard oil, turmeric, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and a touch of pickle masala for an achari twist. Set aside for at least half an hour to let the paneer cubes, onion, and capsicum marinate. Cook the paneer in an air fryer, flipping halfway through, until it becomes slightly browned around the edges. This classic appetiser pairs well with a bowl of mint chutney and lemon wedges.
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3. Hara Bhara Kebabs
Not every platter needs to revolve around paneer and potatoes. Hara bhara kebabs bring a lovely green colour to the spread and offer a combination of vegetables, herbs and warming spices. Blanch spinach briefly, squeeze out the excess water and combine it with mashed green peas, boiled potatoes, chopped coriander, green chillies, ginger, garam masala and roasted cumin powder. Add a little roasted gram flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture, then shape it into small, flat patties. Brush or spray them lightly with oil and arrange them in the air fryer basket. Cook until the outside turns crisp and golden, flipping them carefully halfway through. Serve these kebabs with mint-coriander chutney or a tangy yoghurt dip.
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4. Tandoori Baby Potatoes
Baby potatoes are great party treats since they are simple to cook, dip and serve. Parboil them until just soft, then gently smash each potato. Coat them with thick yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, Kashmiri chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, kasuri methi and a drizzle of mustard oil. Let them rest for 20 to 30 minutes, then spread them out in a single layer in the air fryer. Cook until the edges are crispy and the masala is lightly roasted. Top with chopped coriander and a squeeze of lemon. These spicy potatoes are especially wonderful with a refreshing mint or garlic yoghurt dip.
5. Crispy Corn And Cheese Bites
If your Diwali guest list includes children or friends who enjoy cheesy snacks, these little corn bites deserve a spot on the platter. Combine boiled sweet corn with mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped coriander, green chillies, black pepper and a little salt. Add breadcrumbs or cornflour gradually until the mixture holds together, then shape it into small balls or bite-sized cylinders. Refrigerate them briefly so they firm up before cooking. Brush lightly with oil and arrange them in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air-fry until golden on the outside, turning gently if needed. Serve immediately with a spicy tomato dip or green chutney.
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6. Sweet Potato Chaat Bites
Sweet potato chaat is a delightful way to add a touch of tartness to your Diwali buffet. Peel and cut sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes or wedges, then toss them with a little oil, cumin powder, red chilli powder and salt. Shake the basket halfway through air-frying to make sure the edges are slightly crunchy and the interior is soft. In a serving dish, combine the piping hot pieces with chopped tomatoes, coriander, onions, and a squeeze of lemon.
If you want it extra crunchy, sprinkle on more sev just before serving. For a change of pace from the typical fried appetisers, try this potato dish instead; it has an inherent sweetness that pairs well with spicy chutneys.
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