Vegetarian Recipes You Can Make in an Air Fryer

Air frying has brought a modern twist to traditional Indian cooking, making it healthier, quicker and far more oil-efficient. This method is especially appealing if you are a vegetarian. It allows you to enjoy crisp, flavourful dishes without the need for deep frying. With minimal oil, air fryers deliver delicious results, capturing the essence of fried foods with a fraction of the fat. Crompton’s Air Fryer is both dependable and versatile, making it ideal for exploring a variety of veg recipes in air fryer. 

1. Air-Fried Vegetable Samosas

Ingredients: 

• 10 mini samosa wrappers 
• 2 boiled potatoes (mashed) 
• 1/2 cup green peas (cooked) 
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 
• 1 tsp garam masala 
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder 
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder 
• 1/4 tsp coriander powder 
• Fresh coriander leaves (optional for garnish) 

Instructions: 

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed boiled potatoes and cooked green peas. 
2. Heat a small pan and add the cumin seeds, letting them splutter for a few seconds. 
3. Add the cumin seeds to the potato and pea mixture. Then, add garam masala, salt, red chili powder, turmeric, and coriander powder. Mix everything well until evenly incorporated. 
4. Spoon the prepared filling into the mini samosa wrappers. Seal the edges carefully, ensuring the filling is secure. 
5. Preheat the Crompton Air Fryer at 180 degrees Celsius for 3-5 minutes. 
6. Lightly brush the samosas with oil (optional for extra crispiness) and place them in the air fryer basket. 
7. Air fry the samosas for 10-12 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown in colour, turning them in the middle of the cooking time. 
8. Remove the samosas from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. 

Tip: Serve hot with green chutney or tamarind sauce for a delicious snack! 

2. Crispy Paneer Tikka 

Ingredients: 

• 250g paneer cubes 
• 1/2 cup hung yogurt 
• 1 tbsp. ginger-garlic paste 
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder 
• 1 tsp red chili powder 
• 1 tsp garam masala 
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice 
• 1 tsp oil (optional, for brushing) 

Instructions: 

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the hung yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to make the marinade. 
2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently coat them with the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse. 
3. Preheat the Crompton Air Fryer at 180 degrees Celsius for 3–5 minutes. 
4. Place the marinated paneer cubes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are evenly spaced for better airflow. 
5. Air fry the paneer for 8–10 minutes or until crispy on the edges and golden brown in colour. 

Tip: Brush the paneer cubes lightly with oil before air frying for an extra crispy finish. 

Serve hot with a sprinkle of chaat masala and a side of mint chutney for a delicious appetizer. 

3. Gobi Manchurian 

Ingredients: 

• 1 medium-sized cauliflower (cut into florets) 
• 1/4 cup cornflour (for coating) 
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 
• 1/4 tsp black pepper 
• 1 tbsp. soy sauce 
• 1 tbsp. garlic (finely chopped) 
• 2 tbsp. spring onions (chopped, for garnish) 
• 1 tbsp. chili sauce (adjust based on spice preference) 
• 1 green chili (optional, for extra heat) 
• 1 tsp oil (for coating) 

Instructions: 

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornflour, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Toss the cauliflower florets in the mixture until they are evenly coated. 
2. Preheat the Crompton Air Fryer to 180 degrees Celsius for 3–5 minutes. 
3. Lightly coat the cauliflower florets with oil using a spray bottle or brush. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. 
4. Air fry the cauliflower for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. 
5. While the cauliflower is cooking, heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the chopped garlic until fragrant. 
6. Add the chili sauce and chopped green chili (if using) and cook for another 1–2 minutes. 
7. Once the cauliflower is crispy and golden, toss it in the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat all the florets. 
8. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot. 

Tip: Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal 

4. Crispy Bhindi (Okra) 

Ingredients: 

• 250g fresh okra (bhindi), sliced lengthwise 
• 2 tbsp. besan (also known as chickpea flour) 
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder 
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder 
• 1 tsp garam masala 
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 
• 1 tsp oil (for coating, optional) 

Instructions: 

1. Wash and pat dry the okra to remove excess moisture. Slice the okra lengthwise into halves. 
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the besan, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. 
3. Toss the sliced okra in the spice and besan mixture, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. 
4. Preheat the Crompton Air Fryer at 200 degrees Celsius for 3–5 minutes. 
5. Lightly spray or brush the coated okra with oil for a crispier texture. 
6. Place the okra in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. 
7. Once the okra is golden and crispy, remove from the fryer and serve immediately. 

Tip: Serve with roti or rice for a delicious and healthy side dish. 

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers 

Ingredients: 

• 3 medium-sized bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) 
• 200g paneer (crumbled) 
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder 
• 1 tsp garam masala 
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder 
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder 
• 1 small onion (chopped) 
• 1 medium tomato (chopped) 
• 1 tbsp. fresh coriander leaves (optional, for garnish) 
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 
• 1 tsp oil (for coating) 

Instructions: 

1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds carefully. Set the peppers aside. 
2. In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped onions until golden brown. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until soft. 
3. Add the turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt to the mixture. Stir well and cook for a minute. 
4. Add the crumbled paneer to the pan and mix everything well. Cook for another 2–3 minutes. 
5. Stuff the prepared mixture into the hollowed bell peppers. 
6. Preheat the Crompton Air Fryer at 180 degrees Celsius for 3–5 minutes. 
7. Lightly coat the stuffed peppers with oil. Place them in the air fryer basket and air fry for 10–12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred. 
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot. 

Tip: Serve as a side dish or pair with rice or roti. 

6. Air-Fried Vegetable Pulao 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup basmati rice 
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, and potatoes) 
• 1 medium onion (sliced) 
• 1 tomato (chopped) 
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves 
• 1 tbsp. ginger-garlic paste 
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 
• 1 bay leaf 
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder 
• 1 tsp garam masala 
• 1 tsp red chili powder 
• 1 tbsp. oil 
• Salt to taste 
• 1 1/2 cups water 

Instructions: 

1. Start by washing the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, which prevents the rice from sticking together. After washing, soak the rice for 15–20 minutes to soften it and reduce cooking time. 
2. Set the Crompton Air Fryer to 180 degrees Celsius and let it preheat for a few minutes. This ensures that your rice and vegetables cook evenly when they go into the air fryer. 
3. In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and a bay leaf, allowing them to sizzle and release their aroma. Add onions sliced with electric chopper and sauté until they turn golden brown. Then, add ginger-garlic paste and cook for about 2 minutes, until the raw aroma fades. 
4. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir and cook until the tomatoes soften and blend with the spices. Next, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for another 2–3 minutes, coating them with the spices. 
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan with the vegetables, stirring gently to avoid breaking the rice grains. 
6. Place the rice and vegetable mixture into the air fryer basket. Add water in the ratio of 1:1.5 (for every cup of rice, add 1.5 cups of water) and stir to mix. 
7. Cook in the air fryer at 180 degrees Celsius for 15–18 minutes. Stir halfway through for even cooking. 

Once cooked, garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with raita or pickle for a complete meal. 

How to Take Care of Your Air Fryer 

When cooking in an air fryer, you ought to keep the following things in mind: 

• Regular Cleaning 

After each use, clean the fryer basket, tray, and any removable parts. This helps prevent food debris and oil build up that can impact the fryer’s performance over time. Rinse and dry thoroughly to keep the cooking appliance’s components in excellent condition. 

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals 

When cleaning, use mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaning pads or harsh chemicals, as these can scratch or damage the non-stick coating and reduce the lifespan of your air fryer. 

• Use Parchment Paper Carefully 

Lining the basket with parchment paper can minimise mess, especially when cooking sticky or greasy foods. However, ensure that the paper is securely weighed down by food and doesn’t block airflow, which is essential for even cooking. 

• Check Cord & Plug 

Regularly inspect the power cord and plug for any signs of wear or damage. This ensures safe operation. Always unplug the air fryer when it’s not in use, which also prevents accidental starting. 

• Avoid Overloading 

Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking and may cause the fryer to overheat. Leave space between food items to allow proper air circulation, which is key to getting that crisp, fried texture. 

• Store Properly 

Once clean and dry, store your air fryer in a cool, dry place. Covering it when not in use helps prevent dust accumulation, keeping the kitchen appliance ready for the next cooking session. 

Use the Crompton Air Fryer to Cook Tasty and Healthy Air Fryer Vegetarian Recipes 

Using a Crompton Air Fryer for air fryer vegetarian recipes makes cooking healthier and more convenient. It helps you prepare crispy, flavourful dishes with minimal oil, preserving the authentic taste of traditional foods. The air fryer is easy to maintain—just clean it regularly, avoid overloading the basket, and handle it with care to ensure longevity. Whether it’s for snacks like samosas or meals like paneer tikka, Crompton’s Air Fryer ensures you can enjoy delicious, guilt-free meals every day with ease. 

Vegetarian Air Fryer Recipe FAQs 

• Can you bake desserts in your air fryer? 

The Crompton Air Fryer is versatile and can be used for baking desserts like cakes, brownies, and cookies. Preheat the air fryer to the required temperature (usually 160–180 degrees Celsius) and use an oven-safe dish or baking pan that fits within the fryer basket. Baking times may be shorter than in a traditional oven, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking. 

• How long does it take to cook food in an air fryer? 

The cooking time depends on the type of food and its size. On average, it takes about 10–20 minutes to cook most meals, such as fries, nuggets, or vegetables. Denser foods, like chicken or large cuts of meat, may take a bit longer. Always check your food for doneness and refer to recipe guides for precise times. It’s also helpful to shake the basket halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. 

• Can you use aluminium foil for air fryer vegetarian recipes? 

You can use aluminium foil in the Crompton Air Fryer, but with caution. Ensure the foil doesn’t block the air vents or the hot air circulation, as this can affect the cooking efficiency. You can use it to line the basket or wrap food to help retain moisture. However, avoid using foil when cooking foods that need to be crispy or when air flow is essential for even cooking. 

• What quantity of food can you cook in an air fryer? 

The quantity of food you can cook depends on the capacity of your Crompton Air Fryer model. Most models can hold between 2–5 litres, allowing you to cook meals for 2–4 people at a time. For best results, avoid overcrowding the basket. You want enough space for the hot air to circulate around the food for even cooking and crispiness. 

• Is the Crompton Air Fryer energy-efficient? 

The Crompton Air Fryer is designed to be energy-efficient. It cooks food quickly by circulating hot air at high speeds, reducing cooking times compared to traditional ovens or deep fryers. This not only saves electricity but also reduces the need for large amounts of oil, making it both energy-efficient and cost-effective. The quick cooking time helps reduce energy consumption.