Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Sabudana

   Soak sabudana (tapioca pearls) for 1 hour. After soaking, wash the sabudana 3-4 times under running water and drain thoroughly to remove all excess water. Transfer the drained sabudana to a bowl.

2. 2.Prepare Lentil Patties Mixture

   Soak chana dal for 1-2 hours. In a large bowl, combine the soaked chana dal, the prepared sabudana, 2 boiled and grated potatoes, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 teaspoon garam masala, 3-4 small chopped sweet peppers, and 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

3. 3.Season and Form Patties

   Taste the mixture and adjust salt and spices according to your preference. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and form them into round patties.

4. 4.Air Fry Patties

   Place the formed patties in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Check halfway through and flip the patties if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.

5. 5.Prepare Tamarind Rice Tempering

   In a microwave-safe bowl, add 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, 1/4 cup peanuts, and 1/4 cup cashews. Microwave for 1 minute until the nuts are lightly toasted and the seeds are fragrant.

6. 6.Add Spices and Tamarind Paste

   To the bowl with the tempered ingredients, add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 3 tablespoons of tamarind paste. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Microwave for an additional 2 minutes.

7. 7.Combine with Rice

   Add 3 cups of cooked rice to the tamarind mixture in the bowl. Mix thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated with the tamarind paste and spices.

8. 8.Cook Basmati Rice in Instant Pot (Optional)

   If cooking fresh rice, wash 2 cups of basmati rice thoroughly. Transfer the washed rice to the Instant Pot inner pot and add 4 cups of water. Cook according to your Instant Pot's instructions for basmati rice (typically on 'Rice' setting or Manual/Pressure Cook for 4-6 minutes with natural release).

9. 9.Serve

   Serve the hot, air-fried lentil patties alongside the flavorful microwave tamarind rice for a complete meal.