Air-Fried Millet Chakri
Ingredients:
½ cup millet flour (choose any: bajra, ragi, or jowar)
¼ cup besan (gram flour)
1 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
½ tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp red chili powder
¼ tsp turmeric powder
1 tbsp ghee or olive oil
Salt to taste
Water as needed for kneading
Equipment Needed:
Air fryer
Chakri press (or piping bag with star nozzle)
Rolling board and pin (optional if hand-shaping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine millet flour, besan, carom seeds, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt.
Add ghee or olive oil and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it becomes crumbly. This ensures a crisp texture after air-frying.
Gradually add water little by little and knead to make a soft, pliable dough. It should be smooth but not sticky.
2. Shape the chakris:
Divide the dough into small portions.
Option 1: Using chakri press – fill the press with dough and squeeze out spirals directly onto parchment paper or a plate.
Option 2: Hand-shaping – roll small ropes and coil them into spirals on a plate. Keep them uniform in thickness for even cooking.
3. Preheat the air fryer:
Set the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
4. Air-fry the chakris:
Place the shaped chakris in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Leave space between each for hot air circulation.
Air-fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even golden-brown color.
Keep a close eye in the last 3 minutes — they should turn crispy but not burnt.
5. Cool and store:
Let the chakris cool completely on a wire rack. They will become crunchier as they cool.
Store in an airtight container for up to 7–10 days.
Tips for Best Results:
Consistency of dough: Too soft → chakris may break; too hard → difficult to shape.
Spices: Adjust chili, turmeric, and ajwain as per preference. You can also add black sesame seeds for extra flavor and nutrition.
Air fryer: Every model is slightly different. Check after 10 minutes and adjust time as needed.
Nutritional Benefits:
Millets: High in fiber, help control blood sugar, and gluten-free.
Besan: Provides protein and keeps the chakris crunchy.
Carom seeds & cumin: Aid digestion, especially helpful during festive overeating.
Air-fried: Reduces oil intake significantly compared to traditional deep-fried chakris.
