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Golden air-fried poha cutlets served with mint chutney
These Vegetable Poha Cutlets are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with vegetables, poha, and aromatic Indian spices. Made with minimal oil and air-fryer friendly, they are perfect for healthy snacking, lunchboxes, evening tea-time, and weight-loss meal plans.
• 2 Serve • Easy
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INGREDIENTS

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup poha flattened rice, washed and softened
  • ½ cup boiled potato mashed
  • ¼ cup carrot grated
  • ¼ cup capsicum finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp green peas boiled
  • 1 green chilli finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp coriander leaves chopped
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • ½ tsp red chilli powder
  • ½ tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp roasted cumin powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp oil for greasing

Optional Add-ins

  • 2 tbsp oats powder
  • 2 tbsp grated beetroot
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp flaxseed powder

RECIPE TIMES

PREP:
15 minutes
COOK: 15 minutes
TOTAL: 30 minutes
85 kcal
*per serving

STEP-BY-STEP

  • Rinse poha under running water and let it rest for 2–3 minutes until soft. Drain excess water completely.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine softened poha, mashed potato, grated carrot, capsicum, green peas, coriander, and green chilli.
  • Add turmeric, red chilli powder, garam masala, roasted cumin powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together.
  • If the mixture feels soft, add oats powder and mix again.
  • Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into round cutlets or patties.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Lightly grease the basket.
  • Arrange the cutlets in a single layer and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  • Alternatively, shallow fry on a non-stick pan using minimal oil.
  • Serve hot with mint chutney, coriander chutney, or yogurt dip.

NOTES

✨ EXPERT TIPS

  • Squeeze excess moisture from vegetables to keep cutlets crisp.
  • Oats powder helps bind the mixture and boosts fiber.
  • Air fry instead of deep frying for a lighter version.
  • Chill the mixture for 15 minutes before shaping if it feels sticky.
  • Flip halfway through air frying for even browning.

🌿 VARIATIONS

Weight Loss Version
Replace potato with oats powder and grated zucchini.
High Protein Version
Add mashed paneer or boiled moong sprouts.
Kids Lunchbox Version
Shape into mini cutlets and serve with ketchup.
Vegan Version
Use the recipe as-is since it is naturally vegan.

❄ STORAGE

  • Refrigerate uncooked cutlets for up to 2 days.
  • Freeze shaped cutlets for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat in an air fryer before serving

🥗 HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Poha provides quick energy and is easy to digest.
  • Carrots and capsicum add vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Oats increase fiber and improve satiety.
  • Air frying significantly reduces oil consumption.
  • Makes a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful answers about this healthy recipe

1. Can I make poha cutlets without potatoes?

Yes. Oats powder, sweet potato, or mashed paneer can be used instead.

2. Are poha cutlets good for weight loss?

Yes. When air-fried and made with vegetables, they can fit into a balanced weight-loss diet.

3. Can I freeze poha cutlets?

Yes. Freeze uncooked cutlets and air fry directly when needed.

4. Which poha is best for cutlets?

Thick poha is ideal because it holds its shape better.

5.Can I bake poha cutlets instead of frying?

Yes. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 18–20 minutes until golden.

6. Are poha cutlets suitable for kids?

Absolutely. They are nutritious, mild in flavour, and lunchbox-friendly.