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Irregular air fryer paneer popcorn bites in the basket
TrendyTadka Editorial

Crispy Air Fryer Paneer Popcorn Bites

Paneer cubes get a light cornstarch-spice crust and crisp in the air fryer in 10 minutes for a fast vegetarian snack.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 14 ounces paneer cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chile powder or paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Cooking spray
  • 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
  • Lime wedges and cilantro for serving

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F. Blot the paneer dry.
  2. Toss paneer gently with yogurt and oil. Sprinkle with cornstarch, chile powder, cumin, garam masala, garlic powder, and salt; fold until lightly coated.
  3. Spray the basket and arrange paneer in one layer with gaps. Mist the tops lightly.
  4. Air-fry 8 to 10 minutes, shaking gently after 5 minutes, until the edges are golden. Do not overcook.
  5. Sprinkle with chaat masala and serve immediately with lime.

Notes

  • Fold gently so cubes do not crumble.
  • Cook in batches in a small basket.
  • Apply oil as a mist, not a pour.
  • Serve immediately; paneer firms as it cools.