Air Fryer vs Traditional Frying: Pan Alternatives for Healthy Pakoras

Pakoras are one of India’s most loved snacks—whether it’s onion pakoras with evening chai, palak pakoras during monsoons, or mixed vegetable fritters for festive gatherings. As health-conscious cooking becomes a priority, many home cooks now search for healthy pakoras, low oil pakora recipes, and air fryer pakoras vs frying pan.

But is an air fryer really the best option? Or can traditional stovetop cooking, when done right, deliver pakoras that are both crispy and healthier?

The Air Fryer Trend: Is It Ideal for Indian Pakoras?

Air fryers have become popular for oil-free cooking and quick snacks. They work well for frozen foods and crumb-coated items, but besan-based Indian pakoras behave differently.

Traditional pakora batter needs steady heat to puff, crisp, and cook evenly. In an air fryer, pakoras often turn dry, dense, or unevenly browned. Frequent shaking is required, and the final texture rarely matches the familiar crunch of traditionally cooked pakoras.

For those looking for convenience and reduced oil, air fryers are helpful—but they may not be the best solution for authentic Indian pakoras.

Traditional Frying Isn’t Always Unhealthy

Deep frying does create crisp pakoras, but it also increases oil absorption. However, deep frying is not the only traditional method. Shallow frying and pan frying allow you to enjoy pakoras using significantly less oil—especially when you use cookware designed for even heat distribution.

This approach supports healthy Indian cooking at home without sacrificing taste or texture.

Meyer Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Flat Dosa Tawa, 24 cm, Black

Best Pan Alternatives for Healthy, Low-Oil Pakoras

Cast Iron Frypans: The Traditional Healthy Choice

Cast iron is one of the best materials for frying pakoras with less oil. It heats evenly and retains temperature, preventing pakoras from sitting in lukewarm oil and absorbing excess fat.

A well-seasoned Meyer Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Frypan allows shallow frying with minimal oil while delivering crisp edges and soft interiors. It is ideal for onion pakoras, spinach pakoras, and vegetable fritters.

Cast iron also naturally enhances browning, making pakoras look and taste closer to restaurant-style snacks.

Hybrid Non-Stick Cookware: Modern and Convenient

For home cooks who prefer easy handling and faster cleanup, advanced hybrid non-stick pans are a smart choice. These pans allow pakoras to cook evenly with just a thin layer of oil brushed across the surface.

Circulon SteelShield cookware combines stainless steel durability with non-stick performance, making it suitable for low-oil frying, repeated use, and consistent results. It is especially useful for delicate batters and mixed vegetable pakoras.

Flat Tawas for Ultra-Light Pakoras

Another healthier alternative is cooking pakora batter in small portions on a flat tawa, similar to mini fritters or thick chillas. This method uses very little oil while still achieving crisp edges.

A Meyer Non-Stick Tawa works well for cabbage pakoras, carrot pakoras, and moong dal pakoras, making it a popular option for everyday healthy snacks.

Why the Right Pan Matters More Than the Appliance

The biggest factor in making healthy pakoras at home is temperature control. Poor heat distribution causes pakoras to soak up oil, while consistent heat ensures quick sealing and minimal absorption.

High-quality cookware helps maintain stable temperatures, allowing pakoras to cook faster, crisper, and lighter—even on a regular gas stove.

Expert Tips for Making Healthier Pakoras on the Stovetop

Keep the batter thick so it clings well and doesn’t absorb oil. Always fry on medium heat—oil that’s too hot burns the outside, while oil that’s too cool makes pakoras greasy. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Instead of paper towels, drain pakoras briefly on a wire rack to maintain crispness.

These small adjustments make a big difference in reducing oil while improving texture.

Air Fryer or Pan: Which Is Better for Pakoras?

If your priority is convenience and minimal oil, an air fryer is a helpful tool. But if you’re looking for authentic taste, crisp texture, and healthier results, pan frying with the right cookware is the superior choice.

Cast iron, hybrid non-stick, and flat tawas allow you to enjoy pakoras that are golden, crunchy, and significantly lighter than deep-fried versions—without compromising flavour.

Conclusion

Healthy cooking doesn’t mean giving up traditional snacks. With thoughtful techniques and high-quality cookware, pakoras can remain a guilt-free indulgence.

Sometimes, the healthiest upgrade in your kitchen isn’t an appliance—it’s the pan you choose.