Step 1: Sauté Onions

Heat oil in a pan. Add finely chopped red onions and sauté until translucent and lightly browned. Sprinkle with salt while sautéing.

Step 2: Add Spices and Peas

Add the mixed spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala) to the sautéed onions and mix well for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the frozen green peas and mix thoroughly with the spiced onion mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes

Add the boiled and mashed potatoes to the pan. Mix all ingredients well, mashing the potatoes further to combine everything into a uniform mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is well combined and slightly dry.

Step 4: Prepare Flour Slurry

In a bowl, combine cornflour and all-purpose flour. Gradually add water while whisking to create a smooth, lump-free slurry of medium consistency.

Step 5: Season Breadcrumbs

On a plate, spread the breadcrumbs. Drizzle with cooking oil, then add red chili powder and chaat masala. Mix the breadcrumbs and spices thoroughly with a spoon until evenly coated.

Step 6: Shape Cutlets

Using a cookie cutter (or by hand), take portions of the potato-pea mixture and press them into desired shapes (e.g., heart shapes as shown).

Step 7: Coat Cutlets

Dip each shaped cutlet into the prepared flour slurry, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, transfer the cutlet to the seasoned breadcrumbs and roll it until completely covered.

Step 8: Freeze Cutlets

Place the coated cutlets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for 3-4 hours. This helps them hold their shape and become crispier when air-fried.

Step 9: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (355°F). Place the frozen cutlets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Cook for 20-22 minutes.

Step 10: Flip and Finish Cooking

Halfway through the cooking time (around 10-11 minutes), open the air fryer, flip the cutlets, and lightly spray them with oil for an even golden-brown crust. Close the air fryer and continue cooking for the remaining time until golden brown and crispy.

• Ensure the potato mixture is cooled before shaping to prevent stickiness.

• For extra crispiness, spray the cutlets with a little oil before air frying.

• These cutlets can be deep-fried for a more traditional taste, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

• Add other vegetables like carrots, corn, or beans to the mixture.

• Experiment with different spice blends for varied flavors.

• Use different cookie cutter shapes for fun presentation.